Mill Road cemetery

The rustic slab of stone in the middle of this mocked-up photo is one of six monuments proposed as artwork for Mill Road cemetery.

The makeover proposed for the grade-II listed cemetery in Cambridge will be the subject of an exhibition this week where the public will be able to comment on the works of art sculptor Gordon Young has designed.

A bench for the cemetery is also proposed alongside the columns, which have been designed to encourage birds to feed, perch and bathe on them.

Each work of art in the concept based on bird song will include a piece of text dedicated to a species of bird.

Mr Young said: “On visiting the cemetery the sense of tranquillity and peace is apparent. I wanted to create something that helped to highlight this aspect of the space.

“I want the artworks to encourage the local residents of Cambridge to take time out of their busy schedules, stroll or sit down amongst the greenery at Mill Road cemetery and just listen to the birds.

“Bird song has been credited with having a soothing effect on our souls and Mill Road cemetery is full of birds. The artworks are designed to bring our attention to this natural and 
wonderful phenomenon.”

Cambridge City Council councillor Rod Cantrill said the council was delighted with the plans.

“Focusing on the theme of bird song, the project reflects the diversity of the site as both an important green space and cemetery,” he said.

The art has been funded by developer contributions. The exhibition runs in the Salvation Army Shop in Mill Road from February 6-10.