Concerns over plans next to Caistor cemetery

Outline planning permission for the development on land to the rear of 132 North Kelsey Road has been submitted to West Lindsey District Council.

At last week’s meeting of Caistor Town Council, councillors had the opportunity to comment..

Coun Steve Critten highlighted that the land in question, which is next to Caistor cemetery, was in the civic and commercial zone on the historic landscape characterisation plan within the Castor Neighbourhood Plan.

However, acting clerk Helen Pitman told the meeting she did not believe it had been identified as a specific site, but added there was obviously potential to extend the cemetery there.

Councillor Alan Somerscales said: “My only comment is that it is the waste of a potential cemetery site

“I did ask the clerk when I saw the house was up for sale to approach the owner to say we [the council] could be interested [in the land] but unfortunately it had already been sold at that time.”

Councillor Jayne Bowman agreed about the site’s potential.

She said: “I personally would object because I think land is going to be scarce for the cemetery .

“It has been brought to the council’s attention on many occasions that we do need to consider how we would expand and if it went as housing that would be a very serious concern.

“It should be kept for the town of Caistor and purchased in whatever way or however these things happen.

“We should be safe guarding it for the historical future of Caistor.

“I think it is our responsibility to safeguard that land.”

Coun Steve Gaughan, as chairman of the town council’s planning committee, summarised the application.

He said the land was large enough to accommodate a development of the proposed size .

Coun Gaughan also felt it was within a reasonable distance of the town centre.

However, when it came to a vote, it was resolved to object to the plans, six to five.