A PLAN to build a ‘natural burial ground’ to the north of Endmoor was voted through unanimously at a South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) meeting.

The project would see a nine-hectare site adjacent to the A65 turned into a place where loved ones’ ashes can be buried inside a biodegradable urn, with each plot being eight square metres in size. Included in the site would be an access onto the A65, a car park, and a building to accommodate a maintenance area and office.

And, despite the objections of some of those living near to the proposed burial ground, it was given the go ahead at a meeting of the council’s planning committee.

Oliver Wates, of Summerlands Court, which is close to the proposed development, said there was “swathes of land” to the east of Gatebeck which was better suited to a burial site.

He feared the A65 was becoming “more and more congested and more and more busy”, also highlighting a separate set of plans to construct 106 homes north of Sycamore Close at Endmoor, which could further squeeze traffic.

“My concern is that this is a nice idea but it’s in the wrong place,” he added.

Included in the plan is a car park with 36-38 spaces, but concern was raised about the strain which could be placed on parking once the plots at the burial ground began filling up (the limit will be two burials per day).

Cllr Brian Cooper agreed the A65 was a “busy road with a lot of turn-ins” and the burial ground was “not going to help that”.

However, speaking about his personal experience of Dalton Woodland natural burial ground, near Burton-in-Kendal, he added: “The most I have ever seen up there is two cars. I have never seen any more.

“I can’t see hordes of people coming [to the Endmoor site]. I’m just going from my own experience.”

The proposal to accept the application was voted through unanimously by councillors.

Following the decision, applicant Stephen Brown, of Inspired Meadows Ltd, said: “I am extremely pleased that Inspired Meadows has been granted consent for this exciting project.

“Our aim is to create a beautiful and environmentally responsible resting place in the South Lakeland area, offering a serene, picturesque and tranquil place for friends and family to come and remember their loved ones.”

He added: “Unlike crowded cemeteries, this location will be made up of large memorial plots that complement the local landscape and grow more beautiful over time.”