Luton Council acquires Vale Cemetery extension amid lack of plots

Luton Council has revealed that plans are being finalised on the extension of the Vale Cemetery to meet local demand for burials, following the granting of planning permission. 

The council has acquired land for the new cemetery extension adjacent to the existing plot, which is situated in Stopsley. 

According to a survey of the Vale’s burial capacity from 2018, the cemetery is expected to run out of burial land by 2025. Luton Council believes that a rise in deaths and burials during the pandemic has made the need for an extension “even more urgent” before the site runs out of burial spaces. 

The new extension will allow for up to 7,000 graves, comprising double and single grave plots and a new natural burial site with 700 burial spaces.

Luton Council’s priority is to maximise the capacity of the site and to protect the new Vale extension from flooding, while remaining mindful of the regulations pertaining to the green belt land extension. 

In addition, the local authority has been engaging with funeral directors, faith leaders and families about the plans. 

In recent weeks, the management team at the cemetery has also held a number of daytime, evening and weekend drop-in sessions with stakeholders, residents and the general public at the Vale, Bury Park Community Centre, and the Mall. 

Cllr Javed Hussain, deputy leader and portfolio holder for sustainable development and highways at Luton Council, said: “It is our priority to give residents who have passed away an appropriate resting place. We know that Vale cemetery is appreciated as a peaceful place to remember loved ones. This extension will ensure that continues, with burial spaces for the future.

“We understand the sensitivity of this matter, but the regulations we’re implementing will ensure the longevity of Vale cemetery as a burial ground for the community. Therefore, we encourage residents to view the extension plans and send in any questions or concerns you want to raise.”