No new cemeteries allowed under proposed MEPA policy

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has published a public consultation on the policy and design guidelines for “clear and appropriate planning parameters” for cemeteries, which also alternatives to burial, like crematoriums.

While the guidance document is proposing that the construction of new cemeteries will be prohibited, extensions to or additional graves within existing cemeteries will only be permissible provided that sufficient justification is made through a cemetery management plan.

In determining whether a development proposal is acceptable, various studies – hydrological, geological and pedological surveys – will need to be carried out to assess the cumulative impact of the proposed development.

The policy sets out design criteria determining extent of land take-up, methods of construction, appropriate structures within cemeteries, landscaping and perimeter treatment, access and car parking, maintenance and upgrading, and the sustainable management of burial space.

Where an extension is justifiable, the proposed policy encourages that the facilities of the existing cemetery are considerably improved to include storage rooms, a visitors’ room and sanitary facilities so as to cater for funerary services which can be used by persons of any religion or rite. 

The document takes into account the relevant legislative and planning policy frameworks at European and national level. These form the basis for the evaluation of proposals in relation to distance from other developments, protected areas and sites, physical constraints and determine what studies and assessments need to be carried out.

The document highlights the importance of introducing methods of funerary techniques as an alternative to burial on land, which in the long term will result in the reduced need for extensions to cemeteries. The proposed guidance document also recommends that the Maltese legislation should be amended so as to allow above ground burials to be carried out.

Last December, MEPA had published the proposed objectives which were to guide the formulation of this proposed policy and design guidance. MEPA is also publishing the submissions it had received from the public and other stakeholders, related to the proposed policy objectives and the Authority’s reaction to them.