91Èȱ¬

A city cemetery is to close temporarily while a group of people who have set up camp in the grounds are moved on.

Rock Cemetery, on the corner of Mansfield Road and Forest Road East, will shut on Monday for an initial two-week period, Nottingham City Council said.

Officials said a small encampment of people, who are believed to be homeless, moved into the cemetery grounds around three months ago.

Since then, there have been a number of anti-social behaviour issues, including drug problems, litter and human excrement left on the ground.

The council said the group remains at the site, near the Forest Recreation Ground, after several weeks of support and encouragement to leave.

It said a number of complaints have been made from visitors who felt intimidated by their presence.

A council spokesperson said: “We have a duty to make sure the site is clean and safe for those who want to visit and pay their respects to loved ones, so have taken the difficult decision to temporarily close while we begin the formal process of getting the group to leave the site.

“The council will ensure that everyone is offered advice and support to help them find a permanent place to live."

The council said the cemetery will remain open by appointment for anyone who needs to attend.

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