By Hayley Robinson

Funeral directors, villagers and members of Iwade Parish Council were among those who went to look at plans for a new cemetery in Iwade.

The two-day exhibition held at the Swallows Leisure Centre, Central Avenue, Sittingbourne, attracted around 30 people who were curious to see how the new cemetery will look once it is developed behind All Saints’ Church in The Street.

A spokesman for Swale council said: "I understand that the feedback was positive and that the design of the cemetery was liked.

"There are about 500 spaces in the new cemetery and it is hoped that it will serve the area for up to 20, maybe even 30, years.

"In terms of what happens next, the work should be going out to tender in the next few weeks and we are aiming to have the cemetery open around July time."

Swale council has set aside £100,000 for developing the cemetery.

The new site is needed because Sittingbourne Cemetery, in Bell Road, is almost full.

It will be operated by Swale council and ongoing costs are estimated at £10,000 a year.

The proposal also includes the transfer of a Grade II listed barn to the council to be used as a depot for the council’s grounds maintenance contractor.

The land behind the church was given to the council by Ward Homes, which is building houses close to the new cemetery site.

The cemetery will also serve Sheppey because its cemetery in Halfway has a maximum of 10 years until it reaches capacity.