Vehicular access for people with a disability at some Mid and East Antrim cemeteries

From Monday, May 4, vehicle access to Craigyhill Cemetery in Larne and Victoria Cemetery, Carrickfergus, will be available daily from 9.00 am until 10.00 am

This arrangement will also apply at Cushendall Road Cemetery and Ballee Cemetery, in Ballymena.

The council says visitors should follow “strict guidelines on protecting public health by adhering to social distancing and staying at least two metres away from another person while attending a cemetery, unless with members of their own household”.

Council staff will control access during any burials to “ensure the utmost respect and dignity for grieving families”.

Public health guidelines and advice are signposted at all cemeteries, with staff present.

The council has also stated no-one should visit a cemetery if they or a member of their household is experiencing symptoms of coronavirus.

The development has been welcomed by elected representatives in East Antrim.

Ulster Unionist MLA John Stewart said: “Since the cemeteries re-opened on Monday, a large number of you have contacted raising concerns that vehicles were not being allowed in.

“This was creating real issues for some disabled people struggling to visit love ones’ graves.

“I raised the issues with the council chief executive and it has now been confirmed that there will be vehicle access for those with a disability into the main cemeteries from Monday.

“The entire situation at all sites continues to be monitored.”

Independent Knockagh Councillor Bobby Hadden said: “I look forward to vehicular access for all cars in order to alleviate the parking issues on the Victoria Road (Carrickfergus).

“However, we must be mindful of social distancing and the cemetery staff who are continuing to work in very difficult times.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter.