Extension of Magdalen Hill Cemetery consecrated
The planned extension of Winchester’s Magdalen Hill cemetery has been consecrated.
Left to right: Registrar Sue De Candole, burial manager Marriam Baxendale, the Bishop of Basingstoke the Right Reverend David Williams, and Winchester City Council cemeteries officer John Rogers
The Bishop of Basingstoke the Right Reverend David Williams conducted a special service which took place at the cemetery.
The extension is much-needed and will provide approximately 5,600 new burial spaces long into the future. It also includes the planting of memorial trees and features the placement of memorial benches.
The new extension will have designated areas for Muslim and Ghurkha faiths, as well as a plot for travellers, to reflect the diversity of our population across the district. The Church of England, Catholic and Free Church areas have also been extended.
Portfolio holder for landscape and open spaces, Councillor Jan Warwick said:
I am delighted that the Council is committed to extending Magdalen Hill Cemetery. We are devoted to maintaining the rich diversity of the district and to do this it is vital that we have burial space for all faiths.
Head of burials at Winchester City Council, Susan Croker added:
It is a wonderful investment in burial plots by the City Council, which will support the residents for many years to come.
The new area will feature ecological enhancements such as tree planting and landscaping. A designated butterfly conservation area has also been thoughtfully included.
The cemetery extension will be officially opened next spring.