A new regulation for the municipal cemeteries of Heusden-Zolder came into effect in October. The aim is to keep the cemeteries well-maintained and accessible, with sufficient space for burials and remembrance. This is particularly important for the cemeteries in Berkenbos and Zolder-Centrum, which face a potential space shortage in the coming years.
The first phase of the procedure concerns graves without concessions for individuals who passed away before December 31, 2000. This affects approximately 1,100 graves in Berkenbos and 900 in Zolder-Centrum. Graves in special zones, such as children's graves and graves of ex-servicemen, are excluded from this phase.
In addition to creating space, attention is also given to funerary heritage. Gravestones and other elements of potential historical, artistic, or societal value are being inventoried to inform future decisions regarding the layout and management of the cemeteries.
From October 19, 2026, a general announcement will be posted at the entrance of both cemeteries, and the affected graves will receive a recognizable sticker. Relatives have until December 31, 2027, to gather information and make choices.
Relatives can opt to take out a concession to preserve the grave, have the remains transferred to a grave with a concession, or choose exhumation and cremation. Those who take no action agree to the grave being cleared after the procedure.
The local authority will cover the costs of exhumation if relatives choose an individual exhumation for transfer or cremation within this procedure.
