KNOWSLEY Council has shared some findings from its public consultation over proposals to convert some woodland into cemetery space.

The authority announced its plans to buy part of Whiston Woods from the Forestry Commission to convert into cemetery space last year.

The council said the move, which could cost £2.6m including £700k to buy the land, was needed because the existing cemetery at Fox’s Bank Lane was reaching capacity and would run out of spaces in the next three years.

News of the plan led to the formation of a campaign group of furious residents. 

Members of Save Whiston Woods have since been vocal in opposition to the plans, stating that it would destroy a much-loved community space and arguing that the council should find an alternative location.

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Knowsley Council has said public access to the woodland would remain as part of the plans and instead would lead to “significant improvements” within the space.

Knowsley Council carried out a consultation of online and in-person events from June 5 until August 4, this year regarding proposals to extend Knowsley Cemetery into Whiston Woods.

The council says the proposals would create the additional capacity needed over the next 100 years to allow residents to lay their loved ones to rest in the local area.

In total, Knowsley Council says, 222 survey responses were received and 83 people attended one or more of the seven in-person events that took place across Knowsley and also in St Helens.

What were the consultation's findings?

Knowsley Council says a summary of the findings include:

  • Overall, 54% of respondents indicated their support to extend the cemetery into Whiston Woods.
  • The majority of respondents (77%) felt that cemetery provision should be available locally for Knowsley residents.
  • People’s main reason for currently visiting Whiston Woods was for walking and exercise.
  • The majority of respondents (74%) supported the proposed habitat and woodland management improvements.
  • The majority of respondents (73%) supported the proposed pathway and community access improvements.

The council noted some respondents highlighted parking and increased traffic as potential issues.

The authority added that proposals include car park provision at the site and entrance / junction improvement works will be undertaken.

In terms of "improvements at Whiston Woods", the council says that installation of bins, benches, habitat improvements, improvements to the entrance and wildflower planting were "key priorities".

What are the next steps?

A report will be presented at Knowsley Council’s Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, December 6, to outline the consultation findings and agree the next steps.