The existing cemetery to the rear of St. Patrick’s Church in Keady is to be extended to accommodate by close to 1,000 new plots.
The most modern part of the cemetery sits adjacent to the front of the church, however, large swathes of vacant land to the rear is set to be utilised in the future, with plans in place for 869 plots.
There are a number of older graves within close proximity of the church’s rear.
The planning application was lodged by Daly, O’Neill & Associates Ltd, Portadown, on behalf of the trustees of Keady Parish, Madden Row, Keady.
The Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon (ABC) planning report states: “The proposed grave extension area is approx. 0.7ha in area and will be located within the north-western, southern-western and south-eastern parts of the site, either side of the existing pedestrian pathways.
“The proposal includes the use of a surfaced roadway leading to the centre and western side of the site, and pedestrian pathways leading to burial areas. The proposal is for 869 plots with an annual burial rate of 40 burials per annum.
“Officers, in consultation with Natural Environment Division, note there are mature trees on the site which have the potential to support a variety of species, including bats and wild birds. These trees are to be retained.
A major cemetery extension, on land opposite St. Patrick’s Church in Keady, has been approved. Credit: ABC planning portal
“The proposed development will be served by an existing access point located adjacent to the church building and off St. Patrick’s Street.
“The proposal also includes a new vehicle access point and pedestrian access point to the rear of the site via the existing car park.”
The planning application was listed as approved, at last Wednesday’s (April 10) ABC Planning & Regulatory Services Committee meeting.
