Row over gates to stop flytippers at Doncaster cemetery finally settled

But these gates installed by railway bosses, left disabled residents devastated when they found they could not get to their loved ones’ graves.

However, officials now believe they have finally found a solution to the problem by providing an access code to those with genuine need to drive up to Warmsworth Cemetery.

Network Rail, which owns a 150m path between the road and the cemetery, installed the barrier because of concerns about vans driving up Guest Lane, and leaving piles of flytipped rubbish – but some disabled residents were stunned to see them appear.

Now after a campaign to provide access which included an appeal to MP Rosie Winterton for help, it is hoped a solution is in place which will work for everyone and still keep flytippers away.

Among those upset by the gates was Fiona Campbell, whose disabled parents were no longer able to access her grandparents’ grave.

She said: “My mum can’t use a wheelchair, and my dad can’t push her. Driving was the only way they could get to the grave. It has been a problem for people with mobility issues. It was quite upsetting for them. But it seems that we’ve found a solution.”

Richard Owens, head of maintenance for Network Rail, said: “We understand how important it is for everybody who needs to visit Warmsworth Cemetery to be able to do so. We’ve worked closely with local stakeholders in recent weeks to make sure the area is accessible for people who want to visit.

“Visitors who need to access the cemetery in a vehicle can contact Doncaster Council’s Bereavement Services Team on 01302 736900 or 01302 735346. The council will provide the access code needed to open the gate.

“The gate we installed on Guest Lane followed reports of fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour in the area. We hope that by sharing the access code more widely, as well as our recent work to resurface the road approaching the cemetery, it will mean people have easy access to the site.”

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