GARDEN DISGRACE
Shock after visit to babies’memorial
Concerns have been raised about the condition of the grounds surrounding the babies’ memorial garden at Saint Thomas’ Cemetery in Cambusbarron
David Kerr (54) lives close to the cemetery and admits he was shocked at the state the area was in while visiting at the weekend.
Mr Kerr wants more work to be done to enhance the garden as an attractive and welcoming place to be while improving privacy for visitors.
He says that only a “cheap-looking wooden fence” separates the memorial garden from a building yard containing piles of rubble.
He told the Observer: “There used to be a lovely
hedge going along there but for some reason they’ve gotten rid of it.
“There’s now this cheaplooking wooden fence which you can see over and right through. Theres a lot of rubble piled up on the other side. It’s just not very attractive. I don’t think it’s a fitting memorial.
“I’m just concerned that it’s not being looked after. The impression I get is that they [Stirling Council] are treating it like a back garden – they’ll go out and do some work when they feel like it.”
Mr Kerr says that he regularly visits the cemetery as he has friends buried there and feels the local authority should act on his concerns.
He added: “I contacted Stirling Council and asked if they would like to walk around with me and I could point out some of the issues, but they wouldn’t do that.
“I then emailed them on Monday highlighting the poor surroundings and I’ve not received any reply to this, which is disappointing but not surprising.”
Stirling Council say that they are aware of the complaints made.
A spokesperson said: “The condition of our cemeteries is very important to the Council and to our residents.
“We have received positive feedback from parents on the recent improvements made to the baby memorial garden. We understand the sensitivities around such gardens and will continue with the planned programme of enhancements.
“We are aware of a local resident who has made complaints to the council relating to matters from across the cemetery and how it is used and we shall respond to the individual concerned on all matters raised.”