Reclassification of a section of graves at Islandmagee Cemetery approved after owners express concerns regarding 'disparity'
Mid and East Antrim councillors have agreed to the reclassification of a section of graves at Islandmagee Cemetery, following concerns over memorial options.
A report presented to the council’s Environment and Economy Committee said grave surrounds would be permitted in the new section following a review.
The report noted the council-owned cemetery, at Low Road, has 1,150 plots, the majority of which have grave surrounds and memorials.
The report explained that 36 new plots were designated as lawn cemetery when a section of unused ground was redeveloped to provide additional capacity in 2019.
It added concerns have been raised over the “appropriateness of the lawn cemetery designation given its inconsistency with the historic and traditional nature of the surrounding cemetery sections”.
“The review has identified that the designation of the 36 plots as a lawn cemetery section is not consistent with the established character of Islandmagee Cemetery where traditional graves with surrounds predominate.
“A number of grave owners have expressed concerns regarding this disparity and have requested that the affected plots be afforded the same memorial options as adjoining graves.
“The current restriction prevents grave owners from erecting surrounds that are otherwise commonplace throughout the cemetery and can result in a visual distinction between the newer plots and the existing historic sections.”
Larne Lough DUP Councillor Gregg McKeen proposed accepting the recommendation the affected plots are reclassified to “traditional” provision.
His proposal was seconded by Larne Lough Ulster Unionist Cllr Roy Beggs who said a small section is being “treated differently” and he could “see the logic” with the recommendation.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter