by Chris Ashmore

PLANS for a new council run cemetery in the Letterkenny area are moving forward – and a preferred site could be selected in the months ahead.

The rapid expansion of Letterkenny over the past three decades has seen some existing graveyards running out of space. In particular, Conwal graveyard will soon be full.

Donegal County Council is seeking to establish a municipal cemetery that can accommodate both multi and non-denominational faiths.

Earlier this year, it sought expressions of interest from landowners regarding a possible new site.

Speaking at the July meeting of Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District Council, Cathaoirleach Councillor Ciaran Brogan referred to the fact that capacity issues were highlighted by local priests at last weekend’s blessing of the graves at Conwal.

Cllr. Brogan stressed that the council is “very committed” to identifying and developing a new cemetery in the area.

He confirmed that submissions made regarding possible lands that would be suitable are going through an evaluation process.

The council continues to liaise with local churches and stakeholders and an updated report will be presented to councillors at their September meeting.

It is envisaged that a new municipal cemetery would serve not just Letterkenny but the wider county area as it would be used by multiple and non-denominational faiths.

Applicants with suitable land were asked to reply with details under certain criteria, which included the location, size of the site, planning history, price and when it could be available.

It is expected that the new cemetery will be between four to eight acres in size and will be reasonably level and suitable for grave digging.

The development of a new cemetery would be subject to obtaining planning permission.

Interestingly, the documentation outlining the expression of interest process, included a section that stated that the local authority “will use its best efforts to hold confidential the proposed asking price” subject to their obligation under law, including the Freedom of Information Act.

Back in 2023, at a local municipal district council meeting, Cllr. Donal Coyle claimed that by 2031 both Leck and Conwal graveyards will be full.

He also highlighted the need for the provision of burial spaces for non-Christians, and by way of example pointed out that in one class of 28 pupils at a local national Catholic national school, just 13 were Catholics while 15 were from non-Christian faiths.”

Under law, burial grounds are the responsibility of local authorities, even if they are operated by parishes or groups.