Interments at the historic Omaka Cemetery in Blenheim could start again this year, 35 years since the last person was buried there.
Marlborough District Council reserves and amenities officer Nic Crous said some more work needed to be completed, but initially there would be space for about 100 plots.
In some cases, people would be able to use existing family plots, he said.
Investigations needed to be completed before more space could be opened up, because records for part of the cemetery had been lost or destroyed, he said. Unused open space could also be used, and the council is considering creating walkway access through to the Taylor River banks to the west.
The council decided earlier this year to investigate the possibility of making more use of the old cemetery and the decision to re-open it was formally announced last week.
The council is also drafting a development plan for the cemetery, recognising its historical dimension. It will be important to preserve the character and nature of the cemetery, Mr Crous said.
The family mausoleums and wrought ironwork within Omaka date back to the settlement of Blenheim and some notable figures from Marlborough's past are buried there.
The cemetery is divided into various sections including a paupers' section, a separate Catholic burial area, an RSA section and a children's burial area.
Burial fees have not been finalised.
- The Marlborough Express
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