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Green Burial Site

Welcome to the Green Burial Site page

In April 2002, Sudbury Town Council opened the Green Burial Site, providing the community with the choice of a green burial in a natural setting.

Green burial is designed to sensitively lay to rest someone in an ecologically friendly way.  This is carried out with the least detrimental effect on the environment as possible.  The burial of the body is performed using ONLY biodegradable materials; body wrappings/clothing must be of natural fibres; the containers of cardboard, woodchip or wood must be obtained from ecologically managed resources.  The use of embalming fluid is discouraged.  The grave's surface will provide a habitat for flora, fauna, insects and mammals.

The graves are not marked with the deceased's details, but are discreetly marked with ground markers and recorded on a plan, although tree and seat dedication schemes are available, along with an annual "Day of Dedication" at which relatives can attend where tree planting will take place.

Trees and shrubs planted periodically on the site are allowed to mature thus attracting wildlife and assisting the self-seeding of flowers.  The area is cut two or three times a year, in the growing season, to encourage wild flowers.  Pathways will be cut regularly during the year. and the trees properly managed.

This process commemorates those laid to rest there in a unique way in their wish to "return to nature". 

Arranging a Green Burial

Families can arrange funerals themselves and/or seek the assistance of funeral directors, as required.  Should a family decide to manage its own arrangements, the timing of each stage is very important.  This process can be a heavy burden on the bereaved and a funeral director would be pleased to relieve you of this anxiety.

Use of Chapel

Sudbury Town Council offers a delightful chapel where family and friends can gather for a service with or without a minister.  If you require a minister you would have to arrange this and pay them their fee.  Facilities for playing music are available together with a bier (coffin carriage).

Fees

For use of Chapel - £80.00

Interment fee - £460.00

Interment of a still born child or child whose age at the time of death did not exceed one year - NO CHARGE (Whilst there is no charge for the interment, a £40 administration fee is payable).

Interment of Ashes - £225.00

PLEASE NOTE:

The above charges will be doubled if the purchaser is not a resident of Sudbury.

Plots may be purchased in advance by contacting a member of staff at Sudbury Town Council.

Although the graves will not be marked with details of the deceased, a five year planting scheme is envisaged.  If a relative would like to purchase a shrub or tree this could be arranged by contacting Sudbury Town Council who will be happy to advise you.  Limited seat dedication schemes are also available

For more details on the Green Cemetery please contact Mr. P. Brotherwood, the Cemetery Manager at Sudbury Town Council using the contact page opposite or telephone 01787 372331 

Please note that all fees and payments were correct at the time of editing.