Arranging a burial
Memorial benches and trees
We can supply and install memorial benches to commemorate loved ones within approved locations such as cemeteries, parks and open spaces.
Bench styles range from traditional to modern styles in metal, wood or recycled materials, with the option of an engraved memorial plaque.
Requests for bench installations will be assessed for site suitability and, if approved, a quotation will be provided with bench, installation and administration costs.
To enquire or receive a quotation for a memorial bench or planting of a memorial tree please email cemeteries.admin@midlothian.gov.uk
Terms and Conditions of Service
Approval and suitability:
Each application will be assessed individually for site suitability, environmental impact, accessibility and operational considerations.
Locations will be approved by the Council’s landscaping department. The assessment will take into consideration pedestrian access, maintenance/service vehicle traffic, maintaining the overall visual amenity and functionality of the site, and possible detriment to quality of life for neighbouring residents through creating a focus for antisocial behaviour and conservation area that may prevent installation.
Bench supply:
In order to maintain a corporate identity, only Council supplied benches will be permitted.
Plaque Standards:
Plaque materials, size and wording must comply with Council standards. Plaques or inscriptions containing any reference that could be considered offensive, discriminatory or likely to incite such a response will not be permitted. The Council’s decision in such matters will be final.
Requests to fit an additional plaque or place an additional inscription on an existing memorial bench will not be accepted.
Customers will not be permitted to supply their own plaques.
Tributes:
Additional tributes placed around bench memorials such as the placing of flowers may be removed by the Council if necessary.
Ownership and maintenance:
Benches remain the property of the Council. The Council reserves the right to relocate, repair, remove or replace benches for safety, environmental or operational reasons.
The Council will not be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of benches and plaques and will not be liable for maintenance or for the cost to replace a bench or plaque. This includes damage and replacement of benches and plaques as a result of the following:
- Vandalism/theft/fire
- Vehicle accident
- Damage through activities of a contractor/company carrying out works
Site changes:
If the site where the bench is located needs to be redesigned, have utility services installed, undergo road or path realignment, experience erosion or subsidence, or face any similar circumstances beyond the Council’s control, the Council may remove the bench and relocate it to the nearest suitable alternative location. If no alternative site is available or the customer declines the proposed location, the bench will either be stored for a reasonable period until an appropriate site becomes available or returned to the customer.
Delivery and installation:
Once the final quote is accepted, the Council will generally aim to install the bench within twelve weeks. However, delays may occur due to supplier lead times or adverse weather conditions that hinder installation or construction of hard foundations. Such delays are beyond the Council’s control.