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13
Apr

Plans to expand the churchyard at St Thomas a Becket Church in Hampsthwaite have been given the go-ahead.
Tetley’s Brewery founder Joshua Tetley, the composer Amy Woodforde-Finden and Peter Barker, known as the blind joiner of Hampsthwaite, are among those buried in the village.
Hampsthwaite Parish Council applied to North Yorkshire Council for permission to change the use of a small parcel of agricultural land next to the churchyard.
A design and access statement written by Lister Haigh on behalf of the parish council said the proposal related to land measuring about 500 square metres, next to the existing churchyard.
It added:
The land will be used solely for the scattering of ashes and will not be used as a burial ground.
The design is simple, sensitive, and appropriate to its intended use. The proposal provides a valuable community benefit while ensuring minimal environmental and visual impact. It is considered that the development satisfies the principles of good design and inclusive access, and that planning permission should therefore be granted.
North Yorkshire Council case officer Sam Fleming approved the application. The council’s public report on the decision, published this week, said:
The churchyard is an important and valued community facility and its extension will provide long-term capacity for ash interment and will support the ongoing functioning of the church as a community facility. In addition, the proposal will represent an appropriate and sustainable area for remembrance and quiet reflection, and will contribute to local wellbeing by maintaining accessible green space.
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