6.0 Problems and Pressures

Trees and Scrub

6.1 The trees and scrub that form the boundary at Shopland Churchyard have considerable aesthetic value and a value for wildlife, and are an important element in the special character of the Conservation Area. However the vegetation is now encroaching on the churchyard, altering its overall form and engulfing some of the gravestones. The aerial map of the churchyard on page 3 shows the extent of this incursion.

6.2 A number of notable local individuals are buried at Shopland, and their graves are the focus of local pilgrimages. These should not be surrendered to the encroaching scrub but should remain accessible for visitors. The two listed head and foot stones are also suffering damage from encroaching vegetation.

6.3 The earthworks and residual masonry of the church are in danger of becoming overcome by grass and vegetation. The site is both historically important and provides visual interest in the landscape and should be preserved.

6.4 The care and maintenance of Shopland Churchyard is the responsibility of the Parochial Church Council. Volunteers regularly cut the grass and keep the area tidy, but they are unlikely to have either the capacity or the financial resources for significant intervention.

Signage and Access

6.5 The churchyard is located down Shopland Hall Road, a private 'no through' road leading to the Shopland Hall Equestrian Centre. There are large signs for the Equestrian Centre at the junction with Shopland Road, but there is no signage for the churchyard. Neither is there any signage or information at the entrance to the churchyard, which is easily missed.

6.6 As a private road, there is no public right of vehicular access along Shopland Hall Road, which limits accessibility. However there is a public right of way providing pedestrian access, with two other public footpaths adjoining the road to the north of the churchyard.