What safety work is being done at Rossendale cemeteries?

Safety work is being conducted at four cemeteries to inspect memorials and make them permanently secure, including uprighting stones or laying them flat.

Who should relatives contact for gravestone repairs?

Relatives should use an approved stonemason for any necessary repairs identified during the safety inspection process.

Why are safety upgrades happening at Rawtenstall Cemetery?

Safety upgrades are being carried out following the tragic death of a four-year-old boy killed by a falling gravestone at Rawtenstall Cemetery.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Cemetery Safety Upgraded Following Fatal Incident

Cemetery Safety Upgraded Following Fatal Incident

20 Apr

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Summary

Safety work is underway at four local cemeteries.
Initial inspections have temporarily secured memorials.
Permanent repairs will ensure safer cemetery visits.

Cemetery Safety Upgraded Following Fatal Incident

Safety measures are being implemented across four cemeteries in Rossendale following a tragic accident. A four-year-old boy lost his life earlier this year when a gravestone fell at Rawtenstall Cemetery.

Rossendale Council, which manages cemeteries in Rawtenstall, Bacup, Whitworth, and Haslingden, has begun a two-phase safety initiative. The initial stage focused on inspecting memorials and ensuring temporary safety for visitors.

The second phase is now underway, aiming to make memorials permanently secure. This includes actions like uprighting stones, laying them flat, or leveling ground to improve accessibility while preserving inscriptions.