Cabinet to consider plans for future cemetery space
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Wakefield Council's key decision makers are being asked to consider a new strategy to help plan for future burial provision across the district.
Whilst there is still burial space available across the district, it is not spread evenly. Some cemeteries are already full, and others could reach capacity in the coming years. The proposed strategy looks at how existing space can be used as effectively as possible and how the Council can plan ahead for future needs.
"While there is still burial space available across the district, we know some areas are facing greater pressures than others.
“These proposals will help us understand future needs, make the best use of existing space and build the information we need to make decisions in the years ahead. The strategy includes looking at opportunities to increase the use of existing cemetery space, progressing work already underway and exploring future options where they may be needed.
“We also want to work with local communities so that future decisions take account of local needs and priorities.”
Cllr Julian Carter
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services
Current work is taking place across the district, with a particular focus on Wakefield city and Pontefract. This is because burial space is becoming limited in Wakefield city and the main cemetery in Pontefract has already reached capacity for new graves.
The report asks Cabinet to approve the strategy, continue and expand ongoing work to plan for future burial provision in Wakefield, and support the identification and assessment of potential sites in the Pontefract area.
The meeting will take place on Tuesday 17 November at 5.30pm. Watch the meeting live or later at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLilikhJ0zt3272-X321ObPci8srBgmT2e