The MP and civic society have joined residents in campaigning against the possible extension of Spalding Cemetery over a playing field.
As reported last month, South Holland District Council is testing the land off Chiltern Drive to ensure it meets current guidelines for cemeteries.
It previously applied to extend the cemetery there in 2015 but the application was refused due to concerns over the loss of the playing field.
Now residents are set for a new fight.
Sir John Hayes has backed those campaigning for the playing field to remain.
A response to him from chief executive of South Holland District Council chief executive Rob Barlow states: “For clarity, no other sites have yet been explored, the council is simply undertaking ground investigations as to the potential suitability of the land given the DEFRA requirements now in force.”
Local resident Rodney Marks says he believes there is a covenant on the field stating it must be used for recreational purposes.
“I believe this is what stopped SHDC moving on with the cemetery extension ten years ago,” he said.
The Spalding and District Civic Society has also called for the district council to speak about its options for the cemetery expansion.
Chairman John Bland said in a letter than can be read here: “The society feels that if this proposal is pursued again there will be an elevated level of public disquiet and objections including from bodies such as Sport England again.
“Rather than pursue a plan that has been refused in the past, Spalding and District Civic Society urges the council to properly, openly and transparently engage with key stakeholders and the wider general public.”
It claims the move comes when Spalding has less open spaces than it should according to planning guidance.
