Council fails to back burial site plan for Pontesford Hill

Members of Pontesbury Parish Council met last night to discuss plans put forward by Simon Hutchen to transform Pontesford Hill into a visitor attraction.

Chairman John Pritchard urged villagers to write letters of objection to Shropshire Council expressing their dismay at the scheme.

More than 50 villagers attended the packed meeting, which was held at Mary Webb School and Science College.

Concerns over the scheme, which agents for the applicant state will "protect the future of Pontesford Hill," ranged from destroying wildlife and the beauty of the area to problems of access to the proposed 40 space car parks.

Planning chairman Councillor Alan Hodges said: "There are numerous concerns with regard to this application.

"These include increased vandalism, the scale of the proposal would affect the beauty and tranquillity of the area which is much prized by locals and visitors. Wildlife would be affected and the question of access roads to the site and parking areas.

"The burial site with regards to the depth of soil in the proposed area is not feasible. The area is used by families for relaxation and exercise and to have a large number of families alongside burials is incompatible."

Councillor Pritchard urged those attending the meeting to write individual letters to Shropshire Council airing their concerns.

Councillor Pritchard said: "We believe that if you make your views on this issue known to Shropshire Council it will be beneficial to the outcome."

The Forestry Commission sold the hill to a private buyer in October 2010, despite efforts by the local community to buy it for themselves. There have been several incidents of anti-social behaviour at the site over recent years. Agents for the scheme said the overhaul is designed to protect the future of Pontesford Hill

Applicant Simon Hutchen has put forward plans to make a series of changes to the commercial woodland, which is a designated site of special scientific interest.

A report by consultancy BoA Designs in support of the scheme said the outdoor amphitheatre could be used by local schools and drama groups, while the replica Iron Age Camp would be an educational area for community use.

The report added part of the hill could be set aside for natural burials.

It said: "The interest in and demand for natural burial has grown in recent years as an alternative option for people concerned about the potential environmental impacts of modern funerals."

A consultation period is currently ongoing and ends on January 24.