Planning bid lodged to convert nearby field into burial ground
Cathedral Isle of Man has submitted a planning application to convert neighbouring land into extra cemetery space.
The application, lodged by the Dean of St German’s Cathedral and Chair of the German Burial Authority, the Very Reverend Nigel Godfrey, proposes purchasing a plot of land known as 'field 315146' to expand burial capacity.
The Dean says the existing cemetery is expected to reach capacity within a decade, and unlike in the UK, the Isle of Man sells burial plots in perpetuity, making additional land essential.
Plans include creating access from the current cemetery by breaking through the boundary wall, while retaining the existing car park, which is designed for one funeral at a time.
An engineering report has confirmed the site's suitability, with the new space potentially accommodating several thousand plots - each allowing up to three burials.
The application also outlines landscaping plans, with the planting of native trees and shrubs to enhance the new site and improve screening of the current cemetery, which is described as being in need of a landscape overhaul.
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