Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Pádraig Delargy says Council staff to be commended after announcement of land acquisition for new cemetery
Derry City & Strabane District Council expect the land, near Derry’s border with County Donegal at Mullenan Road, to provide burial space for up to 20 years.
However, the Council also has the option of exploring further expansion into adjacent lands.
Mr Delargy said: ‘We have seen major work taking place in the town cemetery in recent years, particularly at the end of Lone Moor Road and the opening of new burial sites.
“I commend Council staff for their work in maintaining this land and for the compassionate service they provide to many individuals and families in difficult circumstances following the loss of a loved one.
“But the time is approaching when the city cemetery will reach its full capacity.
“It can be a very long process to get a site that meets the city’s needs for the next twenty to thirty years and it is essential that people’s views are heard and that people are kept informed of the plans ahead. as this project progresses.”
A Council spokesperson added: “Following extensive reports and technical assessments, it has been agreed that the Mullenan Road land is the most suitable land for this major development project.
“The board will now engage with all relevant stakeholders to move this strategic project forward.”
Meanwhile, members of the Derry City & Strabane District Council Planning Committee have unanimously approved plans for a further 950 plots at Derry City Cemetery.
Members were informed that as the applicant, Council had made a commitment to the community to inform the public of the proposed development and seek their input before submitting the development application. Participants at the information session were informed that additional parking spaces would be provided along the new access road to the cemetery.
After members voted unanimously to approve, planning committee chairman Cllr Philip McKinney said the plans would be good news for town residents.
