Special measures are set for New Hall Cemetery after traffic chaos weeks ago, as two large funerals happen close together.
A big funeral happens this Saturday at 3 pm on Lindridge Road. Another funeral happens just one hour before. People fear the previous traffic mess may repeat; cars were left all over last time.
Residents couldn’t get out, and carers struggled to park. One person feared it would hurt a house sale. Councillor Richard Parkin spoke out, saying the road wasn’t ready.
The cemetery car park has space, but access is bad, he stated. People panic and park poorly. Cars blocked the road and pavement on February 8th.
The councillor called it a “nightmare.” People could not leave their homes, and verges were damaged. The council gains money from burials, but the council is not investing in roads.
Parkin said the council is acting and aims to prevent another traffic issue. Funeral cars should come via Leigh or Rectory Road. Mourners should share rides and use the cemetery car park, he added. Motorists should avoid the area.
The funeral starts at 3 pm on Saturday, and another starts at 2 pm. Expect Lindridge Road to be busy. Bereavement services has new measures, and they emailed the funeral director.
Cars should come from Leigh Road or Rectory Road to improve traffic flow and stop cars “leapfrogging.” They asked for an announcement about this. This applies to those coming from the mosque; use car parks, they requested too.
The council put the burial plot near the car park. It helps staff direct traffic. Cemetery staff know about the funeral, and four staff will guide traffic on-site.
Another big funeral is set for next Wednesday at 2:30 pm. Similar measures are planned. Expect more traffic then as well.
The council says they know about the traffic. Usage is up at New Hall Cemetery. They plan a new cemetery entrance, which should ease road issues. They’ve tried traffic management already, and this funeral had a very big attendance. Drivers must consider others; don’t block drives or access.