Oxford Burial Meadow construction to begin autumn 2026

Blakedown Landscapes has been appointed as the Principal Contractor to deliver the Oxford Burial Meadow, following planning approval in April.

Construction is expected to begin in autumn 2026, with completion targeted for spring 2027.

The Oxford Burial Meadow will be managed by Oxford Direct Services’ burial services team and is expected to offer burial capacity for around 45 years.

Councillor Anna Railton, cabinet member for planning and zero carbon Oxford, said: "The Oxford Burial Meadow is a vital project for our city, ensuring we can continue to provide dignified and accessible burial space for residents for decades to come.

"This scheme has been carefully designed to not only meet an essential need, but also to enhance biodiversity and create a peaceful, natural environment for people to reflect and remember.

"We are pleased that the project has received such strong public support and look forward to seeing it take shape."

Located off Oxford Road, the new site will provide a sustainable and respectful burial space to meet the city’s long-term needs.

Currently used for farming, the land will be transformed into a public meadow with burial areas, new tree planting, wildflower habitats, paths, and seating.

The project aims to offer a tranquil environment for visitors while supporting local biodiversity.

Oxford City Council identified the site after an extensive search, prompted by a growing shortage of burial space in the city.

A public consultation revealed overwhelming community backing, with 91 per cent of respondents supporting the plans.

South Oxfordshire District Council granted planning approval in April 2026, and Oxford City Council’s cabinet allocated £2.4 million to the scheme.

The meadow will be developed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and biodiversity.

Plans include increasing tree cover, establishing wildflower areas, and creating a nature-rich setting that supports wildlife while providing a calm space for remembrance.

Blakedown Landscapes brings more than 50 years of experience in landscaping and civil engineering, including work on heritage and environmental sites.

Chris Wellbelove, managing director at Blakedown Landscapes, said: "Blakedown is proud to have been entrusted with the delivery of Oxford Burial Meadow.

"This project carries a particular responsibility – to create an enduring place for burial and remembrance that will serve generations of Oxford residents.

"Our extensive experience of delivering landscape schemes with a strong focus on biodiversity and sustainability gives us the expertise to ensure the council’s ambitions for this site are met."

Blakedown will work closely with the council to deliver the project on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.