Vandalism at West Taieri Cemetery has prompted the Dunedin City Council to permanently lock the cemetery gates in a six-month trial.
The idea was raised by West Taieri Cemetery Development committee member Mary Lawlor in a public forum at a recent Mosgiel Taieri Community Board meeting.
While locking the gates would prevent only vehicle access, she said similar action by the South Taranaki District Council had proved successful in preventing vandalism.
The six-month trial would be used to monitor, record and report the public's reaction before any long-term decision was made.
Keys would be made available at the Mosgiel Service Centre and Library, permitting visitors vehicle access if necessary.
The cemetery would be opened for vehicle access during funerals.
The idea was discussed at this week's community board meeting.
Chairman Bill Feather asked council botanic garden and cemeteries team leader Alan Matchett if a key in Mosgiel was appropriate, considering the cemetery was on the outskirts of Outram.
Mr Matchett said it "may be some inconvenience", but expected such issues to be raised during the trial.
The trial will be publicly notified before it begins.
