Monumental Safety Inspections
Monumental safety inspections will be carried out by the Parish Council over the coming weeks to ensure that headstones and memorials within our cemeteries remain safe and do not pose a risk to visitors, staff, or contractors. As the Burial Authority, the Council has a legal and moral responsibility to manage these risks, and these inspections are an essential part of maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
The purpose of these inspections is to identify any memorials that may have become unstable over time due to natural weathering, ground movement, or age. Where issues are identified, appropriate action can be taken promptly to prevent harm, while treating all memorials with dignity and care. All inspections are undertaken in-house by our trained staff, ensuring a consistent, knowledgeable, and sensitive approach.
During this process, some memorials may be temporarily made safe using a method known as “banding”, where wooden supports are installed to stabilise the headstone. If a member of the public notices a memorial that has been banded, this indicates that it has been assessed as unsafe.
A notice will be placed at the foot of the grave to inform families and visitors of the situation. This notice will advise that the memorial requires attention from a qualified stonemason and requests that the Parish Council is contacted in the first instance. The Council will then provide guidance on the next steps and the process required to have the memorial made safe.
We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the public while this important safety work is undertaken.
Tree Safety Inspections
Over the coming weeks, the Parish Council will be undertaking routine tree safety inspections across land and sites under its ownership and management. These inspections form an important part of the Council’s duty of care as a landowner, helping to ensure that trees remain safe for residents, visitors, staff, and contractors. Under health and safety and occupiers’ liability legislation, landowners are expected to take reasonable steps to identify and manage foreseeable risks associated with trees.
Trees are an extremely valuable part of our environment, providing wildlife habitat, improving air quality, supporting biodiversity, and enhancing the appearance and character of our parish. However, like all living organisms, trees can occasionally become unsafe due to disease, age, storm damage, structural weakness, vandalism, or changing ground conditions. Regular inspections help identify potential issues early, allowing the Council to take proportionate and appropriate action where required.
The surveying works will be carried out by suitably qualified and competent tree professionals, who are trained to assess tree health, condition, and potential risks. Any recommended works will then be undertaken in accordance with professional arboricultural guidance and, where necessary, relevant planning and environmental legislation.
The Parish Council would also encourage members of the public to report any concerns relating to trees on Parish Council land. This may include storm damage, fallen limbs, signs of disease, significant leaning, damaged branches, or intentional vandalism. Prompt reporting allows the Council to investigate and, where necessary, take action quickly to help keep our public spaces safe for everyone.
We appreciate the public’s support and understanding while these important inspections and maintenance works are undertaken.