Sible Hedingham's Garden of Remembrance site to be extended

The approved proposal relates to land known as Grays Hall Meadow, off Rectory Road, which currently forms part of a wider open green space owned by Sible Hedingham Parish Council and used for public recreation.

The site has been used as open space since 1991, when permission was first granted for the original Garden of Remembrance.

The newly approved extension will cover approximately 480 square metres, following amendments agreed at a full council meeting in September 2025.

The extension will allow the existing Garden of Remembrance, located alongside St Peter’s Churchyard, to grow into a small section of the meadow, providing around 100 additional plots for the interment of cremated remains.

The parish council had warned that only five spaces remain in the current garden, meaning expansion was needed to ensure long-term provision for the community.

The application site sits to the north of St Peter’s Church and just outside the Sible Hedingham Conservation Area.

It is also in close proximity to several listed heritage assets, including St Peter’s Church itself and other Grade II* and Grade II listed buildings nearby.

However, planning officers confirmed there would be no harm to the setting of these heritage assets, with Essex County Council’s heritage advisers raising no objection.

No concerns were raised by environmental health or the Environment Agency, subject to a condition that the land is used for ash interments only.

A public consultation saw site notices displayed and nearby residents notified, with no objections received.

In its decision, Braintree Council said the scheme would provide “an important community facility” and was acceptable in principle, noting it would integrate appropriately with the existing churchyard and preserve the character of the area.

The council concluded the development represents sustainable growth and granted permission subject to conditions.