Residents are being asked their views on the controversial policy to allow grass and plants in to grow in cemeteries to support wildlife.

Like many other councils, Weymouth Town Council provides designated areas in Melcombe Cemetery, Melcombe Extension, Weymouth Cemetery, and Wyke Cemetery where grass is left longer, only being cut once or twice a year. 

The aim of this is to provide more natural areas in the cemeteries to support pollinators such as bees and butterflies, as well as offer a tranquil area for people when they visit and is in line with the guidance provided by Dorset Wildlife Trust.  

However the policy came under fire earlier in the year, one councillor who is opposed to overgrown cemeteries said the sites should be "beautiful places that honour the dead, not jungles".

READ MORE: Weymouth residents asked for views on 'Living Cemeteries'

The trust recommends maintaining three different grass lengths in the summer months, which the council is currently following: 

1. Areas which can be left as long grass to create a wildflower meadow. 

2. Areas where grass can be cut at a medium length. 

3. Areas which need a short close cut, such as pathways. 

So, the council is asking people whether it should or should not continue to maintain the grass in the three ways outlined. 

The consultation was approved by the Environment and Services Committee in July.

Speaking in July, Cllr Joanna Dickenson said: “I feel really strongly about this.

“First off 'Living Cemeteries' seems a slightly ironic if not absurd title.

“Cemeteries should be neat, beautiful places that honour the dead, not jungles.

“I have had numerous residents speaking to me and feeling very upset at the situation.

“I do not want my parents’ graves covered in weeds and grass."

Committee Chair Cllr Matt Bell said: “The way we currently manage our cemeteries is based on guidance that leaving some designated areas where grass can grow longer allows wildflowers to grow which is beneficial for bees and butterflies.  

“This is to increase biodiversity in the wider context of species decline and is not a cost-saving measure. It’s important to stress that the grass in the separate lawn areas of the cemeteries, where the most recent graves are positioned, is cut year-round. Have your say on the consultation and let us know your thoughts on this topic.”  

People can access the survey online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/GNDK6R2 to give their opinion and tell the Council their reasons.

The consultation runs until 5pm on Monday, October 28.  

The results will then go to December’s meeting of the Environment and Services Committee for consideration.