Hailsham Town Council Announces Upcoming Launch of Pet Cemetery

Hailsham Town Council is pleased to announce the forthcoming launch of a dedicated pet cemetery within the grounds of Hailsham Cemetery in Ersham Road.

Preparation work for the new facility will commence in February, providing a much-needed local place of remembrance for residents wishing to lay their beloved pets to rest. It is anticipated that the facility will open by the end of March.

The initiative follows research undertaken by the Town Council last year into the availability of pet burial and remembrance facilities in the local area. This research highlighted that the nearest designated site for the interment of domestic pet ashes is currently located in Ringmer, near Lewes. The creation of a pet cemetery in Hailsham will therefore offer a more accessible and compassionate option for local families.

The pet cemetery will be located on a previously unused section of land near the main entrance to Hailsham Cemetery. The area is currently being refurbished and landscaped to create an attractive, peaceful and well-maintained setting, suitable for the respectful interment of small domestic pets such as cats and dogs.

Individual burial plots, measuring approximately 12 inches by 12 inches, will be available and will be hand-dug by the Council’s cemetery staff. For a set fee of £99 per plot, the service will include:

• A dedicated burial plot for pet ashes

• Plot preparation and interment by cemetery staff

• A flower vase

• A certificate of ownership

A second pet may be interred in the same plot for an additional fee of £99. Families wishing to add a small marker/memorial plaque with as pet’s name and date of death only may do so at their own expense, provided it does not exceed the maximum permitted size (7 inches x 5 inches).

To ensure the area remains tranquil, respectful and visually cohesive, the site will be landscaped to a high standard. Planned features include the planting of trees, the installation of seating, and a gravel finish consistent with the existing memorial gardens within the cemetery. No additional items or paraphernalia will be permitted, helping to maintain a uniform and dignified appearance. It is estimated that the site will accommodate approximately 100 plots.

Commenting on the project, Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “For many people, pets are beloved members of the family, and their loss can be deeply felt. This project aims to provide a dignified and local place where residents can lay their pets to rest and remember them in peaceful surroundings.”

She added: “The concept has been carefully considered to ensure the area is respectful, attractively landscaped and well maintained, giving families a special place to visit for years to come. By providing this service locally, we are also helping residents avoid the difficulty and cost of travelling further afield.”

“It is our hope that the new pet cemetery will offer comfort and solace to those experiencing the loss of a cherished companion and provide a meaningful place of remembrance for the community.”