Title: Safety Concerns Prompt Closure of Martin Cemetery, Impacting Local Families
Article Body:
Following a recent survey by North Kesteven District Council (NKDC), a cemetery situated in Martin, close to Woodhall Spa, has been temporarily shut due to security concerns linked to unsteady gravestones. The closure has impacted many families, including Vicky Johnson, whose relatives are buried there. On the anniversary of the passing of her mother and sister, the closure has incapacitated Johnson from visiting their graves. This has led to increased frustrations. The results of the survey showed 57 gravestones were dangerously unstable, which necessitated a swift closure for public safety reasons.
The cemetery’s maintenance is a joint responsibility between the Church of England, the local parish council, and the NKDC. Will Jenkins, the chairman of the parish council said that the council was caught off guard by the closure notice. The situation was described by him as “veritably unparalleled”. Factors such as recent rainfall and the effects of local wildlife exacerbated the gravestone instability.
A resolution to the issue is being sought in a cooperative effort between the Diocese of Lincoln and local councils. However, the process is predicted to be slow. Meanwhile, the creation of a secure pathway to accessible graves is being considered by the parish council to alleviate the situation. This proposed solution could, however, bring about considerable expenses. Notices about the closure have been put up to keep the local community informed. All parties involved in the situation are collectively aware of the emotional delicacy of the predicament. Thus, maintaining public safety remains the priority.
The narrative of this issue was initially documented by www.bbc.com and was later adapted by The Lincoln Post.
