A CEMETERY has doubled in size to ensure it will be able to take residents nearest and dearest for the next 40 years. The official opening of the extension of the London Road Cemetery was carried out by the Mayor Councillor Chris Oxley on Monday. Council

A CEMETERY has doubled in size to ensure it will be able to take residents' nearest and dearest for the next 40 years.

The official opening of the extension of the London Road Cemetery was carried out by the Mayor Councillor Chris Oxley on Monday.

Councillors, officers, a team from John O'Conner Grounds Maintenance, funeral directors and representatives from various religious groups attended.

The new cemetery includes a new stone feature, which acts as a focal point for the combined cemetery and it was here that the mayor unveiled a plaque and planted a new tree. There is a small display showing the progress of the cemetery and other highlights.

The district council seeks to provide choice at their three public cemeteries regardless of religious belief. At Westfield Road, Harpenden there is a Catholic section and at London Road there is a Muslim section.

Portfolio holder Cllr Sheila Burton said: "Cemeteries are now being seen as attractive green open spaces in urban areas. The new extension to the London Road cemetery has been laid out carefully to create a parkland setting. Cemeteries are a sanctuary for people, and also a place for biodiversity and historical sites."

The council is also developing a new Green Burial site at Hatfield Road, and increasing the capacity for the burial of cremated remains.

Hatfield Road Cemetery was awarded a Green Flag this year alongside Clarence Park and Rothamsted Park. It demonstrates the Council's commitment to delivering a high level of service across all its parks and green spaces, and this includes its cemeteries. Innovations include an "adopt a grave scheme", and a cemetery newsletter.