A study was undertaken to consider the existing cemetery provision. Surveys and assessments were undertaken to determine when the existing cemeteries would run out of space for new burial plots.

The study also conducted a thorough land appraisal covering all land owned by the City Council to establish which sites would have potential for development as new cemetery space.

The Head of Leisure and Parks and the Head of Corporate Assets submitted a report (previously circulated, now appended) updating the Board on the findings from phase one of the burial space review and recommending the next steps.

Resolved to:-

(1)   Agree the principles for the provision of additional burial space and to remain a provider of burial services going forward; and

(2)   Agree that more detailed work as referred top in paragraphs 5.4 and 5.5of the report be carried out at the site north of Oxford Road, Horspath to assess viability prior to a full business case being developed.