Residents are being given the opportunity to have their say on plans for a new cemetery.

A new multi-faith burial ground is to be created on land off Edge End Avenue and Halifax Road in Nelson.

In four years’ time, the current cemetery on Walton Lane will be nearing full capacity, so the 6.3 hectare site has been bought by Pendle Council to provide space for around 4,500 graves for people across the borough. 

As part of the planning process, residents, councillors and local funeral directors are being invited to express their views during a public consultation event on Wednesday November 22, between 5pm and 7pm, in the Wilson Room at Nelson Town Hall.

This will be a chance for people to look at the plans, which will show where the burial plots will be located, and the designs for landscaping, cremation walls, roads, paths and car parking.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, leader of Pendle Council, said: “A lot of thought and consideration went into finding the right location for a site which would be suitable for a dignified burial space in an attractive green environment.

“We understand the value of green open spaces across Pendle and the site will remain open to everyone. We will not be expanding the cemetery beyond its current boundaries, so anyone with gardens or allotments next to the site will not be affected.”

David Walker, Pendle Council's assistant director of operational services, said: “Designs for the new cemetery will be available for people to see at the public consultation. We would like as many people as possible to come along and let us know their thoughts.

“It’s so important that we get as many opinions as possible, so that we can consider them as we work towards providing this vital facility, which will ensure there is sufficient burial space in Pendle to meet future needs.”