NEW charges are being introduced for a cremations plot in Clitheroe Cemetery.

Construction work was completed on an extension to the Waddington Road burial ground in 2016.

Councillors have been told that the extra space has already proved popular, with 21 burials already having taken place and 22 plots already reserved.

But around 72 per cent of deaths are cremation based, the borough council’s health and housing committee has been told.

Plans have now been made for a cremated remains plot, at the same location.

Judith Paglia, the council’s cemetery and grounds maintenance officer, said in a report: “The new cremated remains plot includes a beam, at the head, similar to the full burial plot.

“This provides a stable base for memorial plaques and allows for greater choice with regards to memorials.

“The area in front of the beam is lawned and each plot will accommodate up to four caskets."

However the charge for each plot will be higher, costing £133 instead of £98.