A major new cemetery is set to take shape in Elgin, offering a respectful and environmentally conscious resting place for the community for years to come.
Construction of the new 5.6-hectare site, located off Linkwood Road and Hallowood Road, will begin at the end of July 2025.
Roughly the size of eight football pitches, the site was earmarked in the Local Development Plan as the successor to the existing Linkwood Road cemetery near Reiket Lane, which is now nearing full capacity.
Designed with care and long-term sustainability in mind, the new cemetery will include access roads, dedicated parking, pedestrian paths and extensive landscaping to ensure a peaceful, accessible space for all visitors.
Around 35 trees will be removed during the initial phase to create necessary access and sightlines.
However, Moray Council has confirmed that the works will take a habitat-conscious approach.
Felled and fallen wood will be left on-site to support local wildlife, and more than 1,000 new trees will be planted alongside wildflowers and shrubs to enhance biodiversity.
The project is being delivered in phases by Pat Munro Ltd, with the first burial area expected to be ready by December 2026.
The full cemetery is due to be operational by Spring 2027.
At that stage, new lairs at the existing cemetery will no longer be offered, although burials for infants, ashes, and Muslim faith services will continue there for some years.
Councillor Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, said the development balances community needs with environmental care.
“This reflects Moray Council’s commitment to sustainable planning, community wellbeing and environmental stewardship,” he said.
“We’re grateful to all those who contributed to the consultation and design process, and we look forward to delivering a facility that will serve Elgin for generations to come.”
With careful attention to ecology, access and respect, the new cemetery promises to offer a tranquil and dignified space at the heart of the community.
