A STYLISED mulberry tree could be located on the roundabout within the Tudorville Cemetery if Herefordshire planners approve the scheme.

The structure will be manufactured from Cor-Ten steel, a weathering material that naturally develops a stable, protective patina with bronze and copper tones, designed to resemble the texture and appearance of tree bark.

The proposed mulberry tree will be located within the roundabout at the town cemetery.

The metallic tree will measure approximately six feet by six feet and is designed to accommodate up to 240 individual granite plaques in the form of leaves.

These plaques will be made available for purchase by members of the public and inscribed in memory of loved ones, creating a lasting and meaningful memorial feature within the cemetery.

The cemetery, which is owned and maintained by Ross-on-Wye Town Council, was opened in 1945 for full burials and interment of cremated remains.

With the town’s memorial tree planting now only reserved for historical/civic or ceremonial significance, due to the limitations of space, councillors were looking for an alternative offering for residents to remember loved ones.

And if the tree is granted planning permission and once installed, the town council will be offering people the opportunity to purchase an inscribed leaf which will be placed on the tree. In time the tree will be self-funded.

Members discussed the proposal for a memorial tree at the town cemetery but raised concerns over the potential that it could be vandalised.

Councillors noted that other towns and parishes with similar trees had not experienced any vandalism to date.

Members highlighted that a leaf on the Memorial Tree would provide an affordable alternative form of remembrance compared to a tree or bench.

The councillors noted that the proposal was not currently included in the budget and consideration was given to the possibility of using profits from the sale of leaves to offset costs for low-income family burials.

Members also considered the option of sponsorship by local businesses.

The council’s management committee later approved funding of £11,540 to purchase the memorial tree. Councillors agreed the memorial tree would be a lovely addition to the town cemetery.

Comments on the application number P261055/F can be made via Herefordshire Council’s planning portal.

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