Ashby planner through to finals for RTPI Planning for Excellence Awards 2023

Scott worked with third parties including ecologists, highways consultants, groundwater specialists and landscape architects after being approached by an existing client seeking a farm diversification scheme that would deliver biodiversity net gain and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional burial methods.

The project, which is on a 136-hectare family-run farm held by the family since the 1950s, delivered planning permission for the natural burial ground and supporting infrastructure, notably a 45-space car park, hearse route and timber structure.

The idea was created by the applicant’s 21-year-old daughter and the planning was achieved by highlighting the sustainability benefits of natural burials and demonstrating the need for the development while protecting a sensitive landscape. Other diversification options were considered but it was the dual benefit of maintaining the landscape and enhancing biodiversity which made the natural burial ground an attractive solution for the re-use of the formerly arable land.

With this project, the applicant has an additional income stream to secure the future resilience of the farming enterprise and rural economy, alongside an accessible natural burial ground for the public to use and remember family and friends in a beautiful rural setting with panoramic views across the Vale of Belvoir.

The natural burial ground minimises environmental impact by using 100% biodegradable coffins or shrouds and removing the embalming process, so no toxic chemicals are put into the ground. The site totals 10 acres and can accommodate approximately 4,000 plots with up to 100 burials per year, creating a sustainable and long-term business model for at least 40 years.

The site focuses on improving biodiversity and ecology, with a wildflower meadow boasting more than 20 species that encourage wildlife and pollinators to thrive. A premium grass mix of six varieties was also used and there are more than 90 trees of 13 varieties planted at the site. They are surrounded by 620m of established and newly planted hedgerows, including seven types of native hedge species. Trees were strategically planted along the entrance track and boundaries to contribute to biodiversity without interrupting the beautiful views.

Great attention was paid to ensuring the burial plots complement the site. Each plot has a memorial plaque placed at the time of interment, which is slate and flat, so they blend in with the natural environment and can be mowed over annually to maintain the wildflower meadow. The first natural burial to take place at the site was held in October 2022.

The burial ground is one of only 13 in the East Midlands registered with the Association of Natural Burial Grounds, there are currently only 60 in England. Furthermore, the project is an example of planning excellence being devised and carried out by the younger generation led by the Applicant’s daughter with the input of the local community, delivered by the planning team at Fisher German.

Scott said: “As we all become more environmentally conscious, this site provides a sensitive and sustainable alternative to traditional methods with loved ones laid to rest in the heart of the landscape. This project is an example of planning excellence being devised by the younger generation with the input of the local community delivering notable benefits for the environment and rural economy.”

Liberty Stones, Head of Planning said: “It’s great to see one of our projects shortlisted for this award. I am proud to be part of a hardworking, proactive, and successful team who all deserve recognition for the work they do. It is wonderful to see The RTPI awards recognise our successes and their contribution to the industry.”

Winners across the regions will be announced and celebrated on 22 June at the Albert Hall in Nottingham.