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Buying a Grave
We appreciate that during this difficult time you will have to make important decisions about the cemetery and grave you want for the funeral.
The following information will help you make your choice.
How do I buy a grave?
Normally, your funeral director advises you at the time of booking the funeral.
How long can I buy a grave for?
In the three cemeteries we manage, only two, Kingston and Milton have available plots, although in Highland cemetery family plots can still be re-opened and used. The exclusive right of burial can be purchased for either 25 or 75 years. These are known as 'purchased graves'.
When can burials take place?
Burials can take place on any weekday, except on bank holidays. Please talk to your funeral director or contact us to discuss any specific needs.
What types of graves are available?
In the 1970's and 1980's the Cemeteries were converted to what is known as a 'Lawn Style Layout' where all the old kerbs and surrounds were removed and the memorials repositioned allowing sufficient space between them to cut and maintain the grass all year round.
Lawn-type graves
We will maintain these special areas, at no expense to the grave owner. After the burial, the grave is made level and grassed over. The headstone can have a marble or granite vase plate on which flowers or wreaths can be placed. So that we can maintain these areas, nothing else is allowed to be placed or grown on or around the grave and the area in front of the headstone is grassed over.
Can I bury cremated remains in the cemeteries?
Yes, there are sections for cremated remains at each of our cemeteries. Cremated remains can also be placed in existing family graves or if available, a grave in close proximity to an existing family plot.
Are all the graves on consecrated ground?
All of our cemeteries have consecrated (blessed in accordance with the rites of the Church of England) and unconsecrated areas where you can buy graves.
What is the difference between unpurchased and purchased graves?
Unpurchased grave
An unpurchased grave, sometimes known as a public or common grave, is where the rights or lease to the grave has not been purchased and the council have control of the grave. These graves are only to the depth of one but can be bought at a later date. The council will decide who will be buried in the grave and this might not be members of the same family. No memorial rights exist on public graves so no headstone or other memorial can be put up.
Purchased grave
A purchased grave is where the right of burial can be bought for a period of either 25 or 75 years. The owner of the right of burial can decide who will be buried in the grave and memorials are allowed in line with our cemetery regulations.
How much will it cost?
For current prices you can contact the Cemeteries Office direct on (023) 9273 2559, email cemeteries@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or any local Funeral Director.
Memorials
We know how important memorials are as a lasting symbol of remembrance. We offer technical advice and help to make sure that all memorials meet cemetery regulations and the many Health and Safety issues that now surround burial grounds. We also insist that memorials are erected by approved stonemasons licensed to work in our cemeteries. No one else is authorised to place a memorial.
