The new cemetery, at Claremont Rd, is being developed with the aim of meeting the needs of the Timaru community for the next century, as the existing Timaru Cemetery is expected to reach capacity within five to 10 years.
The draft design, prepared by Glasson Huxtable Landscape Architects and Perspective Consulting, is based on the concept of a "cemetery within a park".
The plan included zones for traditional burials, ash interment, natural burials, and future development, alongside features such as walking paths, reflection areas, and native planting to enhance the site’s ecological value.
In a statement, parks and recreation acting manager Garth Nixon said that in the design concept the council had tried to address some of the initial concerns raised during targeted consultation.
"There were issues raised such as groundwater safety, traffic management, and property screening have been considered in the draft plan. These measures include careful drainage design, leachate controls, and a 50-metre setback from waterways.
"We’ve also worked on traffic and access improvements including intersection upgrades, footpath connections, and internal circulation design.
"To reflect the increasing diversity of the community the site will also be designed to offer flexible burial options, provision for diverse cultural practices, and inclusive amenities such as seating, shade, and accessible pathways."
In choosing a site, the council assessed more than 27 alternatives.
Many were deemed unsuitable due to size, soil conditions, flooding risk, or distance from Timaru.
Claremont Rd was selected for its accessibility, stable subsoil, and capacity to serve intergenerational needs. The council also already owns the land.
Relevant consents will be progressed over the next few years following community feedback and council adoption of the final landscape plan.
The draft plan is available to download on the Timaru District Council website or at King George Pl and the Timaru Library.
The consultation is open until September 10 and feedback can be submitted by email to parks@timdc.govt.nz, by post (Parks Team, PO Box 522, Timaru 7940), or at council service centres.
— Allied Media
