Key environmental considerations
The key environmental impacts arising from the development of a new cemetery/graveyard or extensions to such sites include:
Development footprint
- habitat damage and loss from development footprint
- species disturbance and/or displacement
- alterations to surface water hydrology caused by compaction of soils and an increase in the surface area of impermeable (or slowly permeable) surfaces, removal of site vegetation resulting in a subsequent increase in surface runoff which may, in turn, increase the risk of flooding and soil erosion
Run-off contaminated with organic matter and toxic chemicals
- leaching of embalming fluid, pathogens/microbes and nitrogen compounds into groundwater and discharging into surface waters effecting quality and aquatic ecosystems and fisheries
- contaminated water / groundwater entering a river system causing degradation of the aquatic environment
- mobilisation of sediments from excavated/cleared areas and soil stockpiles
Documents/information required
The following documents/information may be required to ensure that DAERA can provide a substantive response:
Development details
Design details
- annual burial rate/ total number of burials
- site access arrangements
- position of all infrastructure
- site drainage plan (for any roads, parking, paths etc)
Surveys/assessments
- Ecological e.g.
- habitat
- priority/protected species
- Water features survey
- Hydrogeological risk assessment
Further Guidance
Cemeteries Burials and the Water Environment
Water Features Survey