PEOPLE living near fields which could be turned into a natural burial site have objected to the plans, saying they would rather look at sheep.

Locals also raised issues such as concerns over an increase in traffic using Tump Lane in Much Birch, south of Hereford, where the new burial site could go.

Owners of Ash Farm, who bought the site in 2019, asked Herefordshire Council if they can change the use of 2.63 hectares of agricultural land to a natural burial site, with associated groundworks and parking for 40 cars.

There would be two fields used, one for "wholly natural burials" and one for "more traditional burials".

But locals living nearby have objected to the plans, including Malcolm and Jane Barrell who live opposite the site in Tump Lane, which is near to the village's primary school.

In their objection, the couple said five windows of their property look out onto the site, adding: "We would much rather see sheep."

Mr and Mrs Barrell also said they were concerned about road safety.

"Traffic in and out of the site is via Tump Lane, mainly to and from the A49, which may increase the risk of accidents, especially at school times.

"The traffic survey which was carried out in August was not representative of school traffic, nor day-to-day traffic due to Covid-19.

"Traffic has increased in Tump Lane since a weight limit was introduced a few years ago, it has now become a rat run for more cars."

Echoing the concerns of Mr and Mrs Barrell, John Kinross said even though a burial site is better than a building site for "lots of new houses", he said it was "more pleasant to look and sheep or cattle".

He said he was concerned about the potential dangers to pedestrians, including parents who walk their children to school, and suggested the lane should be made one-way, or a footpath installed.

Commenting in support of the proposal, Michael Ford said it was "only right and fair that people should have the opportunity to be laid to rest in a natural burial site with wild flowers".

A planning statement submitted the council said the site would be planted with an array of wildflowers and bulbs, and families would be encouraged to plant natural bulbs for daffodils, crocuses and snowdrops on the grave site.

It said that the visual impact on the neighbouring properties will also be reduced by not permitting grave markers.

The plans include a proposed shelter to allow mourners a dry space if weather is poor weather during internment, or when they are visiting the site, and it would be be open from 8am until dusk.