The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has published a policy frameworks establishing planning parameters for cemeteries.
The new policy prohibits the construction of new cemeteries. The policy allows extensions to or additional graves within existing cemeteries subject to the submission of a cemetery management plan. The management plan, among other requirements, will need to include a survey of the age, distribution and listed status of graves; an appraisal of structures and facilities within the cemetery; a survey of natural habitats, biodiversity, and landscaping; a survey of potentially important archaeological remains; a maintenance programme and scope for the provision of new forms of funerary techniques.
Where an existing cemetery is located at a distance from other developments which is less than that required by law, then the perimeter of the cemetery cannot be extended. In exceptional circumstances, an extension to the perimeter of the cemetery may be permissible, provided that the extension shall not entail an increase in the number of graves but is only for the upgrading of the facilities of the existing cemetery.
The policy also encourages the re-activation, restoration and upgrading of existing cemeteries which for whatever reason have been in disuse.
In determining whether a development proposal is acceptable, various studies (e.g. hydrological, geological and pedological surveys) will need to be carried out to assess the cumulative impact of the proposed development. Depending on the size and location of the proposed development, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and/or an Appropriate Assessment (AA) may be necessary.
The policy makes it a requisite that where geological conditions are favourable four-tier graves are constructed. The facilities of the existing cemetery are to be considerably improved to include storage rooms, a visitors’ room and sanitary facilities so as to cater for funerary services which can be used by persons of any religion or rite.
The document highlights the importance of introducing new methods of funerary techniques as an alternative to burial on land which in the long term will result in the reduced need for extensions to cemeteries