Luton Borough Council

Vale cemetery extension

We're finalising plans on the extension of The Vale cemetery in Luton.

Expanding into land adjacent to the existing cemetery situated in Stopsley, an additional 7,000 grave plots will be created to accommodate future demand before the current site runs out of burial land.

The works will incorporate additional drainage systems and infrastructure to protect the new site from flooding. Since the new extension is situated on green belt land, we want to retain the openness of the site to maintain the tranquillity of the area.

The plans and standards for individual plots at the new site are very similar to those already in place at the current cemetery, including:

full kerbset – either 1, 2, or 3 tier filled with soil or grass
kerbs, which create a rectangular border around the grave, can be constructed from marble or granite, for example - the middle section of the grave needs to remain soil to help with drainage and prevent flooding
flowers are permitted in the middle soil section, but their height shouldn’t be greater than the headstone to maintain the open space feel of a cemetery
standard sized headstone - 39" high, 30" wide, 18" deep
earth mounds (mass of earth placed over a grave) with wooden surrounds – defining a grave plot, wooden surrounds can be used as an alternative to kerbing for graves that have recently had a burial
personal items within the grave plot – not to be higher than the standard size headstone
loan chairs will be available on-site – free of charge
underground chambers (concrete chambers that are placed in the ground to house coffins) and shrouds (material used to wrap a body when a coffin is not used) are permitted

To ensure The Vale cemetery remains a dignified place for all families at each resting place, we'll be implementing the following regulations:

no encroachment outside of the designated plot – that is no personal tributes that cross boundaries onto an adjacent grave space or the walkway space between graves
no items that could contribute to flood risk – such as artificial grass, paving slabs or tiles, stones or shingle filled inside kerbsets
no items that could cause a health or safety risk
planting trees or bushes is not allowed – as their roots will eventually damage graves
permanent placement of seating /chairs is not permitted

The plans and site map of the Vale extension will be uploaded once available.

The plans will also be on display from Wednesday 14 February to Tuesday 20 February 2024, at Luton Central Library, located at St George’s Square, LU1 2NG.

A final decision on the new proposals will be made in April 2024.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the cemetery being extended?

A survey of the Vale's burial capacity conducted in 2018 suggested that the cemetery would run out of burial land by 2025. Unfortunately, a rise in deaths and burials during COVID 19 has made the need for extension even more urgent before the site runs out of burial land.

The extension will not only accommodate future demand but will continue to serve as a peaceful place to remember loved ones.

Will there be parking available at the new site?

Disabled parking will be available at the new site, but able bodied people will continue to park in the site’s existing car park.

As our priority is to maximise the number of burial plots, if we were to build a car park at the new site, it would result in the loss of about 500 grave spaces and have a detrimental effect on the environment.

How can I access the new site?

Between the sites, there will be a footpath across the road. There will also be a service road for hearses.

Are there toilets?

There are washroom facilities at the current site which visitors are still able to use.

Can I bring my dog?

Visitors can bring their dogs to the cemetery provided they are leashed at all times, and their waste must be cleaned up and disposed of appropriately.

What engagement have we done to date?

We’ve been engaging with funeral directors, faith leaders and families about the plans. In recent weeks, the Vale management team has also held a number of daytime, evening, and weekend drop-in sessions with stakeholders, residents, and the general public at the Vale, Bury Park Community Centre, and the Mall.

Will the works affect the current cemetery site?

We continue to have spaces available at the existing site and do not anticipate any disruption to our ability to offer burials.

When will the extension be completed?

The new Vale cemetery extension is expected to be in operation from May 2024.

How can I get in touch if I have a query?

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the proposals, please email [email protected] by Friday 16 February 2024.