Council plans to remove "unauthorised" tributes from Woodlands Cemetery

SOLIHULL Council has voiced concerns about the number of "unauthorised" ornaments being left at local cemeteries and has said that any items which break regulations will be taken away as of next month.
The local authority said that a large number of objects were being left by way of tribute on lawns and hanging from trees at Woodlands Cemetery, near Chelmsley Wood, and two other burial sites elsewhere in the borough.
It has argued these items are against cemetery regulations, on the grounds that they could create problems for other visitors attempting to access graves and make it harder for staff to carry out routine maintenance.
From March, any pieces that fall foul of the rules will be removed and put in storage.
Councillor Tony Dicicco, cabinet member for stronger communities & partnerships, said: "We realise this is a very sensitive issue and try to balance the needs and wishes of all users of our cemeteries.
"If, unfortunately, items have been placed in an unauthorised manner, they will be removed and kept securely on site for a period of six weeks for people to collect.
"Signage has been installed at each cemetery to make people aware of what’s permitted, but if they are still unsure I would encourage them to contact our Bereavement Services team for further guidance."

The issue has led to a number of flashpoints in the past. Last autumn, a mum criticised the council for taking items she had left in memory of her son.