The meadow opened in 2005 with permission granted by the Local Planning Authority. The long term aim is to ensure a well managed exclusive eco-green burial site where a meadow grave offers a return to nature for those who wish to be buried in a living natural landscape among wild flowers close to native trees and shrubs, with only the sounds of birds and small animals close by. Crouch Valley Meadow’s management is committed to maintaining the Meadow as an area of natural beauty. The principles on which the site has been established have been developed in close connection with the Association of Natural Burial Grounds and Essex County Council, with a view to ensuring the site remains an environmentally friendly burial ground at all times, ensuring no grave will ever be re-used or disturbed so those who lie here will rest in peace forever.