A search for archaeological remains is under way on land which has been earmarked for a new cemetery.
The 6.3 hectare site off Halifax Road, Nelson, Lancashire, was bought by Pendle Borough Council to provide space for about 4,500 graves.
Work is being carried out to prepare for when the current cemetery on Walton Lane reaches full capacity in four years.
The survey of the proposed burial ground is to ensure planning permission can be granted for the project and the dig could take between four to eight weeks to complete.
Asjad Mahmood, leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: "A lot of thought and consideration went into finding the right location for a site which would be suitable for a dignified burial space in an attractive green environment.
"We understand the value of green open spaces across Pendle and the site will remain open to everyone.
"We will not be expanding the cemetery beyond its current boundaries, so anyone with gardens or allotments next to the site will not be affected."
