Grievances over the poor condition of a section of Wilton Cemetery are being dealt with under a fortnightly cleaning regime.
Local ward councillor, Stuart Marshall, has been assured the Borough South area of the burial ground is being regularly looked after, amid complaints over its unkempt state.
Local woman Tracey Gallagher told us that over the last 14 years she has vigorously campaigned for “maintenance issues” to be resolved.
“I’ve contacted Scottish Borders Council on many occasions throughout the years, only [for my complaints] to fall on deaf ears,” she said.
Miss Gallagher highlighted leaves, litter, broken fences, crumbling steps, slippery pathways, fallen branches over headstones, and excess soil from graves piled on pathways as some of the issues she has encountered.
On Tuesday, Councillor Stuart Marshall met with council officers at the cemetery. “Officials have now assured me that this area is on a fortnightly cleaning schedule and this hopefully will go some way to improving the situation,” he said.
“I have also been given assurances that a broken fence panel and a large pothole will be repaired soon.
“It is perfectly understandable why people become distressed when they find areas around graves of loved ones aren’t in a tidy condition.
“I’m pleased with the assurances given to me that this area of the cemetery is to receive the appropriate attention.”
The council has also been criticised over increased costs.
“The charges SBC have put upon bereaved individuals is disgusting especially when they cannot maintain the cemeteries,” continued Miss Gallagher.
“How can they justify that in 1995 to purchase a plot was £50 and in 2019 it has risen to £1,400?”
Purchase costs for a lair currently stand at £1,034 including actual plot, title deed fee and foundation fee.
The council was unable to confirm the cost in 1995, as it was then overseen by Roxburgh District Council.
A spokesperson said: “We are aware litter and leaves can be blown into this area of Wilton Cemetery, but it is cleared on a regular basis, and during a visit on Tuesday there was no litter or leaves present.”
They added: “The fence in this area of the cemetery was repaired and painted, and the gate replaced last year, with no issues noted during Tuesday’s visit.
“The removal of the soil from the road is scheduled to be completed later this week.”
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