Planning consent is being sought for the creation of a cemetery for natural burials on a field at Bridge End Farm, Leadgate, Alston.
The application to Eden Council for permission to change of use of agricultural land to form the cemetery is being made by Mrs K Williams and relates to a 0.5-hectare field beside the A689 and overlooking the River South Tyne.
According to the application, no buildings would be constructed on the area and existing farm access would be used.
A parking area by the main farmhouse would be adequate for those visiting the cemetery, where there would be no raised headstones.
Graves would be marked with engraved slate plaques, avoiding any intrusion on the landscape, and it is planned to plant the area with native trees such as sessile oak, alder and rowan.
The application states it is anticipated there would be no more than one burial per month, featuring biodegradable coffins and natural shrouds.
