Natural burials at West Lancashire Crematorium offer more choice

A new natural burial ground has been created at West Lancashire Cemetery and Crematorium reflecting the site’s ongoing commitment to provide more sustainable and meaningful choices for local communities.

Unlike traditional cemeteries, natural burial grounds are gently managed to remain as close to nature as possible.

They encourage local wildlife, protect the landscape and create peaceful, living spaces where loved ones can rest amid wildflowers and birdsong.

Natural burials use biodegradable coffins or shrouds made from materials such as sustainably sourced wood, wicker, or bamboo, ensuring minimal impact on the earth.

West Lancashire Cemetery, Crematorium & Natural Burial Ground is part of Westerleigh Group, one of the UK’s largest independent owners and operators of crematoria and cemeteries, with 42 sites in England, Scotland, and Wales, and which is trusted by more families than any other provider to deliver funerals for their loved ones.

All of Westerleigh's locations are set within beautifully landscaped gardens of remembrance which provide peaceful places for people to visit and reflect, while benefitting from exceptional care and support from its teams.

Manager Laura Linnane said: “Natural burial grounds are the fitting choice for those who value sustainability, simplicity and a deep connection with nature.

“Being laid to rest in a beautiful, tranquil, environment can provide invaluably comforting emotional benefit to the bereaved.

“Because natural burials involve fewer resources, they contribute to long-term environmental sustainability.”

To help maintain the integrity and natural beauty of the area, simple slate memorial plaques on a wooden stake will be used to mark graves instead of traditional granite headstones.

This thoughtful approach will support the preservation of the environment and ensure the area remains safe for local wildlife.

Laura added: “Westerleigh Group already operates some of the most environmentally-friendly crematoria in the country and the introduction of a natural burial ground is another way in which we are working to be ‘greener’ and ‘cleaner’ and also offer more choice to the families we support.

“More and more families are choosing natural burials as a thoughtful way to honour life while caring for the planet. We are pleased to offer a gentle and environmentally conscious alternative for those who wish to return to nature in a truly meaningful way.”

For more information about the new natural burial ground at West Lancashire Cemetery,  Crematorium & Natural Burial Ground, visit www.westlancashirecrematorium.co.uk.