North Northamptonshire set to approve unified cemetery rules

North Northamptonshire Council is expected to approve a new set of cemetery regulations tomorrow (Tuesday 11 November), bringing consistent rules to 13 sites managed across the area.

The proposals follow a public consultation held earlier in 2025, which sought views on plans to harmonise cemetery management, including standard opening hours and a full range of burial options where possible.

Currently, regulations vary depending on postcode, but the council has already standardised fees and introduced a single grave reservation policy across all sites.

Under the new recommendations, the Executive will be asked to approve uniform regulations for all council-managed cemeteries, restrict new graves to single depth in areas with unsuitable soil conditions, and align opening hours at Wellingborough cemeteries with those elsewhere in the area.

The council said responses to the consultation were “generally in favour” of the proposals, with broad support for consistent management and simpler opening arrangements.

Executive member for regulatory services, councillor Kirk Harrison, said: “As a council, we are here for residents at all stages – offering support at difficult times and when they have lost a loved one. I hope this policy provides clarity on what can be a very emotional subject and time for residents.”

Council leader councillor Martin Griffiths said that, if approved, the new regulations would take effect before December 2025.