Southampton Airport today (10th March 2025) welcomed invited guests and community partners to South Stoneham Cemetery to mark the completion of a significant programme of environmental and community improvements across the grounds, neighbouring allotments and wider area.
The event was held inside the newly refurbished Cemetery Chapel, offering attendees the opportunity to see first‑hand the restoration of the chapel, Book of Remembrance room, Garden of Remembrance and pond area.
The works were completed as part of a package of mitigation measures agreed with Southampton City Council alongside essential tree management required to support the safe operation of the airport.
A key feature of the improvements is the creation of a new wildlife corridor along the northeast boundary of the cemetery, delivered in partnership with Carma Earth and local veterans.
The wildlife corridor includes native hedgerows, holly and new bat boxes, all designed to strengthen habitats and increase biodiversity within this historic and sensitive location.
As part of the broader package, Southampton Airport funded the planting of 76 new trees to replace 19 that had to be removed. Of these, 31 were planted within South Stoneham Cemetery and 45 in the surrounding community, including areas near Bassett Green Road and Leaside Way.
Dan Townsend, Head of Airside Operations at Southampton Airport, said: “It has been great to showcase today the works we have undertaken and to thank the local community for engaging with us about the many aspects of the work that were proposed.
“We have also worked very closely with Southampton City Council throughout, which allowed us to address the safety requirements identified by the Civil Aviation Authority but also enhance the biodiversity and facilities in and around South Stoneham Cemetery. We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved throughout this project.”
Alongside the cemetery improvements, the airport has delivered upgrades to the nearby allotments, including improvements to the car park area as well as the installation of new taps and a new toilet facility.
These measures underline Southampton Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible airport operations and meaningful engagement with the local community.
