A new cemetery could be built on the outskirts of Norwich to help alleviate the current concerns about lack of burial space in the city.

Plans have been submitted to Broadland District Council for a change of use of agricultural land and woodland to provide a cemetery.

The application for a new cemetery on the fringe of the city near Hellesdon has been lodged by Canham's Hill Cemetery Ltd and, if given the go-ahead, would be the first new cemetery for the city since 1856 when Earlham opened.

It has been predicted, at the current rate of burials, that Earlham and Rosary cemeteries - the two cemeteries within Norwich's boundaries - would be full within three years.

Norwich City Council had been speaking to Broadland as well as South Norfolk Council, Dignity Funerals Ltd and Costessey-based Colney Woodland Burial Park to see if new sites could be provided further out of the city.

Developers say this application will not only provide burial provision for the city and surrounding areas for more than 100 years but would also be built in such a way that it would enhance biodiversity and wildlife.

A spokesman for Canhams Hill Cemetery (Norwich) Ltd said: 'Many cemeteries are nearly at full capacity and this is a recognised national problem. We're bringing this application to ensure that we provide for the future needs of our communities looking forward 100 years.

'The plans would enable us to provide a location for all faiths and denominations and to provide people with choice. The site would provide 40 acres of traditional grave space as well as 30 acres of woodland burial ground.'

The cemetery, which would be called Canham's Hill, would be located at Canhams Hill, Bradshaw Road, off Reepham Road, Drayton, and would include a gathering hall for funerals to be held, a cemetery office, parking facilities and waiting rooms for families.

The spokesman added: 'The aim is to provide an environmentally friendly option for families as many people are seeking to lessen their impact on the environment and recognise that cremation uses scarce resources. We want future generations to look back and recognise the commitment of this facility to create a sustainable legacy for them.'

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