WITNEY Town Council has decided to open the gates at Tower Hill Cemetery during the day.

The council had closed the gates earlier this year because cars had been driving over children’s graves and disrupting funerals.

But the changes had angered disabled and elderly people, who were unhappy about having to book an appointment to visit the graves of their loved ones.

The council decided a solution would be to install electronic gates to the cemetery and hand out key cards to disabled and elderly residents who needed vehicle access.

But on Monday night the council decided to do away with these plans and instead keep the cemetery open during the day.

Stakes will be installed along the roadside to stop people driving over graves, and bollards will be installed to stop motorists accessing smaller paths.

The solution will please many residents because they will now be able to access the graves of their loved ones whenever they choose.

But some are still concerned about the bollards restricting access to some paths, saying they are not able to walk the distance from the car park to the graveside.

This issue has always been a difficult one, with emotive and strong arguments on both sides, and ultimately the council has struggled with the fact the cemetery was never designed for cars.

We are pleased that the councillors have properly looked into and discussed the issue and have come to a solution that at least attempts to appease both sides.

Unfortunately, there was never going to be a solution that would appease everyone and we hope these new plans make the best of the situation.

We are pleased that the plan will be reviewed in three months, and maybe this can iron out any teething problems there may be.