At a recent Regular Council Meeting, Surrey City Council said it will consider providing a pier for the scattering of ashes on the Fraser River after plea from the large local Indo-Canadian community. The Parks, Recreation & Culture Department has recommended that Council proceed with the development of a designated pier, with potential locations at Brownsville Bar Park or Surrey Public Wharf. This initiative aims to create a peaceful environment for families to commemorate their loved ones. “Our community deserves a space where families can honour their loved ones in a meaningful way,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “Designating a pier for ash scattering respects cultural practices that are intrinsic to the grief and healing process. This project reflects our commitment to supporting residents in their most vulnerable times and will provide the opportunity for those in our community to engage in this sacred ritual while ensuring dignity and respect.”

By DESIBUZZCanada Staff

SURREY– At a recent Regular Council Meeting, Surrey City Council said it will consider providing a pier for the scattering of ashes on the Fraser River after plea from the large local Indo-Canadian community. 

The Parks, Recreation & Culture Department has recommended that Council proceed with the development of a designated pier, with potential locations at Brownsville Bar Park or Surrey Public Wharf. This initiative aims to create a peaceful environment for families to commemorate their loved ones.

“Our community deserves a space where families can honour their loved ones in a meaningful way,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “Designating a pier for ash scattering respects cultural practices that are intrinsic to the grief and healing process. This project reflects our commitment to supporting residents in their most vulnerable times and will provide the opportunity for those in our community to engage in this sacred ritual while ensuring dignity and respect.”

While the City of Surrey offers a “scattering garden” at Sunnyside Lawn Cemetery, many groups find that scattering ashes in water fosters a deeper sense of connection. This practice not only brings peace and closure but also symbolizes the individual’s return to nature.

In 2021, staff began exploring the option of building a pier for ash scattering at Brownsville Bar Park.  While a preliminary assessment was initiated, no formal direction was provided by Council and no budget was allocated for this project. 

If Surrey City Council endorses the initiative, staff will further explore approvals and funding requirements to move this initiative forward, with an estimated construction cost ranging from $2.5 million to $3.8 million. If the initiative moves forward, a report outlining next steps will be presented to Council in 2025 for final approval.

Earlier, City of Surrey said inaccurate information had been circulated regarding the approval and establishment of an ash scattering site in Surrey.  

In 2021, under the previous administration of Doug McCallum, staff was asked to meet with the Five Rivers Community Services Society about the possibility of building a pier for ash scattering at Brownsville Park. Under the direction of the previous Mayor, the pier would be funded privately through the Five Rivers Society. While further discussions occurred, no agreement was reached on funding the project.  

The City said it is also important to note that this matter was never discussed by the previous Council as a whole nor did the previous Council provide any approvals to move forward with this project.  

Under the current administration of Locke, staff initiated dialogue with the province regarding the requirements to allow for mourning families to spread ashes of their loved ones. The province has advised the city that a dedicated dock is needed for this purpose. Staff are preparing a report for Council. The report would outline the steps required to allow for the scattering of ashes and a cost estimate for the construction of the pier. The report will be presented to Council this fall for consideration.