On January 28th I attended a meeting of the Heathley Park Residents Association to discuss the proposed extension of Gilroes cemetery. The meeting was packed out with more than 70 local people, who strongly oppose the plans. Residents object on religious grounds, because they’re concerned about the impact on house prices and the open green spaces in Heathley Park, and because they’re worried there’ll be an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour. Residents also feel they haven’t been listened to, and that their concerns and questions haven’t been properly addressed. I’ve written to the Council Leader and the Head of Planning to urge the Council to postpone any decision on the proposed extension of the cemetery until there has been a proper discussion with residents about all their issues and concerns.