By Kevin Dyson
Copyright dailyrecord
South Ayrshire Council is set to introduce a new policy on public memorials in response to growing demand and a lack of space for traditional tribute benches. A report going before councillors on Thursday recommends expanding the range of memorials available to families while tightening rules around their placement and upkeep. At present, benches are the only form of council-approved tribute, with families choosing a seat in a public space such as Belleisle, Rozelle, or along South Ayrshire’s promenades. But with around 150 requests made in the past year alone, popular sites are running out of room. Officers say the practice has become unsustainable, with some benches being surrounded by toys, balloons and flower vases that prevent use by the wider public. Under the new policy, benches will no longer be the only option. Instead, the council plans to offer: Plaques, blossoms and leaves would be granted for five years at a cost of £250, with the option to renew. Memorial trees would last a lifetime and be recorded in a new commemorative register. The policy also introduces terms and conditions to regulate what can be placed at memorials. Families would be asked not to leave items such as wreaths, flowers or balloons, with the council reserving the right to remove them. Neighbourhood Services has already paused the supply of benches to review practice elsewhere. Other councils, including Inverclyde and North Ayrshire, have stopped offering benches altogether due to space pressures. The new approach aims to balance demand with sustainability, while ensuring that memorials remain welcoming spaces for all. Officers stress that charges are intended to make the service cost neutral, covering installation and maintenance. If councillors approve the proposals, the first new memorials will be installed in autumn 2025, with a full roll-out by summer 2026. The policy also introduces terms and conditions to regulate what can be placed at memorials. Families would be asked not to leave items such as wreaths, flowers or balloons, with the council reserving the right to remove them. Neighbourhood Services has already paused the supply of benches to review practice elsewhere. Other councils, including Inverclyde and North Ayrshire, have stopped offering benches altogether due to space pressures. Officers stress that charges are intended to make the service cost neutral, covering installation and maintenance. The report will be considered by South Ayrshire Council on Thursday.
