Grieving relatives have been ordered to stop scattering the ashes of their loved ones’ in public parks.
Council officials have told residents that honouring someone close to them in this way might be ‘uncomfortable’ or ‘unsettling’ to other visitors and might negatively impact plants and wildlife.
But, locals in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, have hit back at the order.
One fumed: ‘Maybe if you sorted out the steps to the memorial garden in the cemetery that had been closed off with the grotesque orange fence and tape it would be more inviting for people to scatter loved ones.
Grieving relatives in Bridgnorth have been told they must stop scattering the ashes of their loved ones’ in public parks
Council officials have told residents that honouring someone close to them in this way might be ‘uncomfortable’ or ‘unsettling’ to other visitors. Pictured: The River Severn, High Town, Bridgnorth, Shropshire
Some locals have hit back at the order and took to social media to voice their disapproval, but others supported it. Pictured: Three separate comments on the council’s Facebook page
‘Both of my parents are scattered there and it makes it a very upsetting experience to go and visit.’
Another added: ‘Yes it might be upsetting for some to see.
‘But to that family scattering it means everything knowing their loved one is in a place they wished to be.
‘It gives comfort and gives somewhere for the family to be together to remember, surely?’
A spokesman for the Bridgnorth Town Council said: ‘Polite reminder to all.
‘As we navigate our grief and honour our loved ones it’s important to remember that scattering ashes in public parks is not permitted.
‘Here are a few reasons why – respect for others: public parks are shared spaces.
‘Scattering ashes can be uncomfortable for other visitors who may not be aware of the significance or may find it unsettling.
‘Regulations – many parks have specific rules regarding the scattering of ashes to protect the environment and maintain the area’s natural beauty.
‘Environmental impact – ashes can affect local ecosystems potentially harming wildlife and plant life.
‘If you’re looking for a meaningful way to commemorate your loved one, consider designated memorial spaces or private locations that honour their memory while respecting community guidelines.
‘Thank you for your understanding.’
One resident agreed with the notice and said scattering ashes could be considered to be fly tipping.
They said: ‘Always a good idea to get permission from the land owner or local authority before scattering ashes.
‘They might be ashes of a loved one to you, but to someone else it could be considered fly tipping.
‘Or scatter in your own garden.’
According to the Scattering Ashes website in the UK it is legal to scatter ashes on both land and water provided the necessary permission is obtained.
