Additional Muslim burial spaces in Wokingham Borough

Cllr Basit Alvi

The Liberal Democrats in Wokingham have responded to a question raised by Cllr Basit Alvi at the council meeting on 21 November, confirming that additional burial spaces for Muslims are being made available in Wokingham Borough.

At the meeting of the full council on 21 November, Cllr Basit Alvi raised a question after being approached by residents and community representatives from many wards in the borough, relating the lack of suitable burial spaces for Muslims in Wokingham borough. Muslims traditionally require graves which are perpendicular to Mecca. Only one suitable space was available at Shinfield cemetery. Burials that take place outside of the borough cost our residents more money.

Leader of the Council, Liberal Democrat Cllr Stephen Conway committed to following up with officers and as a result has now confirmed that:

• An additional 9 Muslim burial plots (10 in total), have been identified in Shinfield Cemetery which are ready and available to use.
• A further 2 burial spaces could be achieved in the future subject to some work which could be procured and delivered over the period of a month.
• Ten spaces have also been identified at St Sebastians, where provision could be made available immediately.

Moving forwards additional actions will be taken including developing a detailed outline of the short, medium and long term actions required at both burial sites to ensure future provision of suitable sites.

Cllr Basit Alvi has responded by saying:

“I am delighted that we have been able to move forwards so quickly and deliver an immediate response to the Muslim community in Wokingham Borough. I will be following up to understand and ensure the medium and longer term plans for provision of appropriate burial spaces in our borough for Muslims.”