Published on:
30
August 2024
Clackmannanshire’s first woodland burial ground has officially opened.
A ceremony, led by Provost Donald Balsillie, was held on Thursday 29th August at the burial ground, which is located south-west of Alva Woodland Park.
The new burial ground, set in the stunning hillfoots woodland, offers an environmentally friendly alternative to a traditional burial, providing a peaceful space for families to experience a memorable and reflective end of life ritual. There is no fixed funeral arrangements meaning every burial will be unique, welcoming all faiths and beliefs.
The woodland burial ground has a capacity of around 600 lairs. These are single lairs for one occupant only and will only be marked by a tree. All of the burials will use completely natural materials and will be biodegradable allowing nature to take its course. The long term aim is to create an attractive native woodland.
Woodland burial is becoming more popular and there are a growing number of natural burial sites in the UK; however only five other Scottish local authorities offer this service.
Councillor Fiona Law, spokesperson for the environment and net zero, said: “This new burial ground means we can offer an alternative service to local people who don’t want a traditional burial or cremation.”
Provost Balisllie was joined at the opening ceremony by Rev. James McNeil from Alva Parish Church, Rev. Stuart Gray from St John's Episcopal Church, Alloa, and local independent celebrant Susan Fraser. Thanks also go to Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band. who played Highland Cathedral, and piper Donald Erskine who played Flowers of the Forest at the ceremony.
More information about the burial ground is available on the Council’s website