Consultation on a proposal to prohibit the pre‑purchase of grave spaces within the Muslim section of Chorley Cemetery

Overview

Introduction

Chorley Council is reviewing its Cemetery Policy to ensure it remains fair and sustainable for everyone.

Currently, families can buy a grave plot in the Muslim section years in advance. While we understand the intention behind this, these pre-purchased plots are left unused for long periods. This reduces the number of graves available for families who need a burial immediately.

For the Muslim community, a prompt burial is a religious requirement. If we run out of available plots, families face additional stress and delays at an already difficult time.

We believe it is more respectful to ensure that a grave is available when it is needed, while also protecting the dignity of existing grave spaces by removing the need to step over or pass across other graves.

Therefore, the Council is proposing to stop the pre-purchase of plots in the Muslim section. This means spaces will only be allocated at the time of need.

This proposal does not affect any plots that have already been bought.

We are seeking your views before we make a final decision.