Major improvements to Priory Woods Cemetery have been completed and it is now open for all to visit.
The upgrade works have resulted in more burial space.
It is a large, peaceful open space on the western outskirts of the city, with the grounds open to explore and walk around.
Among the improvements is a designated peace garden area, with a water feature.
Another addition is a memory garden, where visitors, including children, are encouraged to post a letter into a special post-box to remember a loved one.
The grounds have been sensitively landscaped and decorative limestone walls have been built to provide secluded and private areas to enjoy.
A more comprehensive drainage system has been installed throughout the site, meaning the cemetery should be less affected by heavy rainfall in the future.
With Hull’s Northern Cemetery now full for those wanting a burial into a new grave, Priory Woods provides an excellent alternative, with enough burial space for the next 30 years.
Dedicated Bereavement Services staff are based on-site at a newly extended visitor centre.
They can help discuss options for final resting place arrangements and choices available for interment or scattering of ashes.
Lisa Buttery, Hull City Council’s head of customer services, said: “We wanted to create a really peaceful, tranquil space, and the addition of the memory and peace gardens has helped to achieve that.
“It really is a lovely space to walk around, while still being sensitive and respectful of those who’ve been laid to rest.”
Councillor Jack Haines, Communities and Communications Portfolio Holder said: “The essential works at Priory Woods have resulted in real improvements for the peaceful site, which means so much for families across the city.
“The Council will continue to work to improve this place for local people.”
The cemetery offers an area for natural burials, an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremations, where graves can be marked with a native fruit tree, or even nothing at all.
Priory Woods even has a new space for cherished furry friends, with owners able to scatter their ashes in a pet garden, leaving a memorial at the dedicated pet frieze.
In addition, a pet crematorium is planned for the site.
Biodiversity is encouraged at Priory Woods, a site for wildlife to flourish, in a naturally beautiful environment.
Dog walkers are welcome, though pets need to be kept on a lead at all times.
Priory Woods Cemetery is on Priory Road, HU16 4RZ.
The cemetery grounds open every day, Monday-Sunday, at 8:30am, closing at 7:30pm from 1 April-31 October, and at 4:30pm from 1 November-31 March.
For more details, visit Priory Woods Cemetery | Hull City Council.
