Pendle News Room

A 6.3-hectare site between Nelson and Brierfield has been bought by Pendle Borough Council to provide a new cemetery for the borough. 

The land off Edge End Avenue and Halifax Road in Nelson will provide space for around 6,350 graves for people across Pendle. 

This will increase the burial spaces for the borough from 1,120 to 7,380. 

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “We’ve been looking for a large site for some time which would be suitable for a dignified burial space in an attractive green environment. 

“We’re now a step closer to creating a new cemetery which will ensure there is sufficient burial space in Pendle to meet our needs in the coming years.” 

Pendle Borough Council bought the land from Lancashire County Council for £840,000 on 15 March 2023. 

A planning application will now be developed which will include access, improved drainage, niche walls for ashes, a road, paths, car parking and tree planting. 

Phillip Spurr, Pendle Borough Council’s Director of Place, stressed: “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. 

“It’s so important that we can provide this vital facility for Pendle which will meet our needs for many years to come.” 

Councillor Ahmed added: “The Council is preparing a detailed plan and funeral directors and other interested people will be consulted. 

“Local people will also have the chance to have their say, as part of the planning process.” 

The cemetery is planned to open in approximately two to three years.