Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have a cardboard coffin?
No. Coffins can be of any wood e.g. oak, pine, willow, bamboo or cardboard. The only request we make is that as it is a natural woodland we would rather non metallic handles were used and plastic products avoided.
Do I have to buy the coffin from you?
No - we are happy for you or your funeral director to provide a coffin, as long as we can OK it first. We can provide details of a selection of coffins for sale which we know are fully biodegradable. (Some so-called biodegradable coffins have plastic liners, or are made from chipboard).
Is the site non-denominational?
We welcome people of all denominations and also of non-denomination.
What is the difference between a plot and a lair?
The plot is the location and area within Binning Memorial Wood where the lair is located.
The lair is the actual resting place.
Can I have a church service?
Yes. A service can, with the agreement of your respective clergy, be held before coming to Binning Memorial Wood for interment . Alternatively, a service can be held at the lairside by a member of the clergy. The lair can also be blessed by a member of the clergy if you wish. Some people choose not to involve the clergy of any denomination but prefer to hold their own service, with their own words. This can be held at the lairside or at a venue of your choice.
Can I visit at any time?
Binning Memorial Wood is open during daylight hours.
How many people usually attend the lairside ceremony?
It varies from one or two people up to 80 to 100.
Is there a facility on site to hold a commemorative service/reception?
Not at present, but there are a number of flexible facilities close by, including hotels, pubs, tea rooms and a village hall. We can provide more details on request.
How do I know that building will not occur on the land in the future?
Official planning policies are particularly restrictive as to types of permitted development of land that has been used for burials. The company has a lease of the site for 100 years, i.e. at least 3 generations.
When no lairs remain it is intended that the land will revert to natural woodland and will be placed under long-term protection and preservation.
Is there a choice of plot type?
Yes. If the family prefer a particular spot or they simply require a larger plot, they can purchase a Double Plot. Single Plots or Ashes Plots for the cremated remains of one individual are also available. A single coffin interment may take place in the centre of a Double Plot, if desired.
My mother was cremated five years ago, but my father wishes to be buried when he dies. Can her ashes be put in with his coffin?
Yes.The ashes remains must be in a biodegradable container. Unfortunately we cannot inter the ashes of one person in the lair of another at a later date. In this instance the ashes could be scattered over the first person's lair, or, if the family have a Double Plot, then one lair could have a coffin interment, and the second lair an ashes interment.
Can I put flowers on the lair?
You are welcome to put flowers on the lair but please remove all plastic packaging. As a long term measure we would suggest planting snowdrops on the lair. We do ask people not to bring their own seeds or plants.
We can provide native plants and bulbs on request and are happy for the family to arrange planting these themselves.
What can we mark the lairs with?
Lairs may be marked with a memorial stone if desired. We will arrange the supply and engraving of the stone. Binning Wood Memorial stone application forms are available on request.
If the lair is not marked, how will people find it?
Marking a lair is a personal choice. All lair locations will be electronically tagged and recorded on a digital plan. Our office holds information relating to each lair on the digital plan and will help you to locate it. New lairs will have logs placed on two sides which will be left in position for three months to allow time for families to arrange for a memorial if required. At the end of this period the logs will be taken away to allow the lairs to blend into the woodland floor.
Can I buy a plot before I die?
Yes. More people than ever are sorting out their arrangements before they die to protect their families from making difficult decisions at the time of death.
This ensures everyone's wishes are taken into account.
How much do plots cost?
Plots vary in price according to type and location in Binning Memorial Woodland.
How does Binning Memorial Wood differ from other green/woodland burial sites?
Many green burial sites are situated on open land where trees are only planted at the time of burial. Binning Memorial Wood is already a beautiful and mature woodland setting. We are committed to maintaining and progressively improving the existing woodland.
We complement our responsible environmental policies by working closely with local Funeral Directors, so that the deceased, their families and friends receive the very best of attention at all stages of what can be a very difficult time.
Will you have a book of remembrance?
Yes.
Can people be interred together?
Yes, our plots can be prepared to a double depth to accommodate two people.
Can dogs be taken into Binning Memorial Wood?
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short lead. Please show particular respect during services.
Is there a toilet on the site?
Not at present. Please encourage friends and family to use facilities prior to attending a funeral. We do intend to install a facility in the near future.