Kingston Council rejects plastic ban enforcement at cemetery

Kingston Council has decided against formally enforcing a ban on plastic decorations at Kingston Cemetery. The authority will instead prioritise an educational campaign to encourage visitors to adhere to existing policies prohibiting plastic items. This decision was made despite a petition signed by 1,241 people calling for stricter enforcement.

Environmental Concerns and Petition

Councillor Alison Fure presented a petition to the council highlighting the environmental issues caused by plastic decorations, such as ornaments, artificial flowers, and cellophane wrappers, within the cemetery. The petition stated that these items accumulate, detract from the serenity of the grounds, and break down into microplastics that pollute the neighbouring Hogsmill River. The cemetery is designated as a Grade I Site of Importance for Nature Conservation.

Councillor Fure noted that plastic items often become litter and spread throughout the cemetery. She had personally spent hours removing plastic from the grounds. Her petition called for the council to write to cemetery users, request the removal of existing plastic decorations, and set targets for plastic clearance by staff.

Council's Approach and Rejected Motion

A report from council officers indicated that the authority's strategy would focus on collaboration and education rather than formal enforcement. This approach includes implementing new signs and QR codes to inform visitors about the rules. Council staff are already tasked with removing plastic and cellophane wrappers during routine maintenance and conduct litter picks twice a week.

Councillor Fure expressed a desire for the council to go further, suggesting a phased withdrawal of plastic items over three months. However, an independent councillor's motion proposing this phased withdrawal was ultimately rejected by the council. The vote saw 33 councillors vote against the motion, with two in favour and three abstentions.

Lib Dem Council Leader Andreas Kirsch stated that the council would work with volunteers but needed to balance environmental protection with the needs of bereaved families. Councillor Sam Foulder-Hughes added that the approach should be based on compassion and empathy for the bereaved, balanced with the need to protect biodiverse spaces.