THE planned extension of Winchester’s Magdalen Hill cemetery has been consecrated.

The Bishop of Basingstoke, the Right Rev David Williams, conducted a special service at the cemetery.

The much-needed extension, between the cemetery and Morn Hill, off Alresford Road, will provide approximately 5,600 new burial spaces long into the future. The current cemetery was rapidly running out of space.

It also includes the planting of memorial trees and features memorial benches.

The new extension will have areas for Muslim and Gurkha faiths, as well as a plot for travellers, to reflect the diversity of the district. The Church of England, Catholic and Free Church areas have also been extended.

Consecration is the setting aside of land or buildings for sacred use in perpetuity. The consecration of a church or a burial ground can only be undertaken by a Bishop.

Cllr Jan Warwick, portfolio holder for landscape and open spaces, said: “I am delighted that the council is committed to extending Magdalen Hill Cemetery. We are devoted to maintaining the rich diversity of the district and to do this it is vital that we have burial space for all faiths.”

Susan Croker, head of burials at the council, added: “It is a wonderful investment in burial plots by the city council, which will support the residents for many years to come.”

The new area will feature ecological enhancements such as tree planting and landscaping. A designated butterfly conservation area has also included. The cemetery is next to the Magdalen Hill reserve, run by Butterfly Conservation.

The cemetery extension will be officially opened next spring.