Bereavement Support
Butterflies Bereavement Support - www.butterfliesbereavement.co.uk
Cruse Bereavement Care - www.cruse.org.uk

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Cemetery Access Path Improvements: Enhancing Safety and Sustainability 

In response to concerns about the safety and condition of the main cemetery access path, the Council recently completed important improvements aimed at ensuring safer and more accessible use of this vital route. The project was carefully considered over three Council meetings held in November 2023, April 2024, and June 2024, with significant input on materials, methods, and long-term benefits. 

 

Why Improvements Were Needed: 

Increased pedestrian traffic, especially following Wyvern College’s changes to their site access, led to more schoolchildren and their families using the cemetery access path. However, the path had become uneven due to historical root heave from the mature trees lining it. This posed trip hazards, and the need for safer and more accessible walkways became urgent. 

 

To address these safety concerns and ensure the path remains safe for both cemetery visitors and school pedestrians, the Council initiated the path improvement project. The goal was to provide a smoother surface that could withstand increased foot traffic while preserving the character of the area. 

 

Choosing the Right Material; A Sustainable Approach:  

After careful consideration, the Council opted to use hoggin path material rather than traditional tarmac for the path improvements. This decision was driven by several key factors: 

 

• Natural drainage and Environmental Impact: Hoggin, a natural and sustainable material, allows water to drain through, reducing pooling and reducing the risk of erosion. 

 

• Protection of Mature Trees: The trees lining the path are a valued feature and the choice of hoggin helps to ensure their longevity. Unlike tarmac, which can crack and buckle with future root growth, hoggin provides a flexible surface that is easier to maintain when root heave occurs. 

 

• Cost-Effectiveness: Hoggin was also chosen for its cost efficiency, offering better long-term value by reducing the need for frequent, costly repairs associated with tarmac. 

 

The specific material selected, Romsey Red Path Gravel, a clay-bound gravel screened from hoggin, provides a firm and durable surface that is both walkable and drivable, making it an ideal choice for this well-used path. 

 

Benefits of the Improvements: 

These upgrades bring several key benefits to both cemetery visitors and school pedestrians: 

 

• Improved Safety: The newly levelled surface eliminates the trip hazards caused by root heave, making the path safer for all users, including families and children attending nearby schools. 

 

• Enhanced Aesthetic and Accessibility: The natural look of the Romsey Red Path Gravel complements the surrounding cemetery landscape, creating a more attractive and welcoming environment for visitors. 

 

• Reduced Maintenance: Future root heave will be easier and more cost-effective to manage, reducing long-term maintenance needs for the path. 

 

Project Summary: 

The Council carefully reviewed all aspects of the project, including materials, costs, and contractor selection, across multiple meetings. This thorough process ensured that the chosen solution would serve the community's needs effectively, both now and in the future. 

 

We are confident that these improvements will provide a safer, more pleasant experience for all who use the cemetery access path, while preserving the beauty and sustainability of this important space. 

Fair Oak Cemetery - General

Fair Oak and Horton Heath Parish Council act as the burial authority for the Fair Oak Cemetery. The Council prides itself in managing and maintaining an essential amenity.