Moray Council has announced that construction of a new cemetery in Elgin is to begin at the end of July 2025, addressing the growing need for burial space as the current cemetery on Linkwood Road nears capacity.

The new 5.6-hectare site, located off Linkwood Road and Hallowood Road, spans an area roughly equivalent to eight football pitches. It was identified as a suitable location through the Local Development Plan and will replace the existing cemetery near Reiket Lane.

The development will feature internal access roads, parking facilities, a pedestrian pathway, and extensive landscaping to create a respectful and accessible space for all visitors.

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As part of the site preparation, around 35 trees will be removed to improve access and visibility. However, in an effort to support local wildlife, felled trees and branches will be retained on-site to create habitats. In addition, more than 1,000 new trees, along with areas of shrubs and wildflowers, will be planted to boost biodiversity.

Construction will be carried out by Pat Munro Ltd and delivered in phases. The first burial area is expected to be completed by December 2026, with the full cemetery operational by Spring 2027. At that point, lairs at the existing cemetery are expected to close to new burials, though Muslim, infant, and ashes burials will continue there for several more years.

Chair of Moray Council's Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Councillor Marc Macrae, said: "This development reflects Moray Council’s commitment to sustainable planning, community wellbeing, and environmental stewardship. We extend our thanks to all stakeholders and community members who contributed to the planning process and look forward to delivering a facility that will serve Elgin for generations to come."