An historic cemetery could double in size to address a critical grave shortage across Perth and Kinross.
Council bosses want to create hundreds of new lairs at the existing Kinross North site, off Broom Road.
The move will extend the lifespan of the cemetery while the local authority continues its search for a brand new site to bury the region’s dead.
A recent study highlighted 17 local graveyards that are expected to reach capacity within five to 10 years’ time.
Planners have now approved proposals for a two-acre extension of Kinross North. Around 50 trees will be felled at council-owned woodland to the east of the cemetery to make way for the new plots.
There are plans for further expansion to the west.
Planning officer John Williamson said in his report: “The council is trying to find a long-term site for the next 100 years.
“Though with the reducing capacity of the current site and potential long-term negotiations of acquiring a new site, the council need to increase the capacity of the current site as there is considered to be between five to 10 years of capacity left.”
He said the loss of trees could impact on wildlife, including protected red squirrels.
Mr Williamson said: “It is accepted that the felling proposed will reduce the availability of habitat for red squirrels.
“However, there is extensive woodland surrounding the site which also provides appropriate habitat.”
He said no red squirrel dreys had been found in the area.
Kinross North was established in the 1940s and has four Commonwealth War Graves.
Around 30 burials take place there each year.
Perth and Kinross Council is trying to identify sites for new cemeteries in eight areas, including Kinross-shire.
The aim is to create eight larger memorial gardens in the most pressured areas.
According to the council’s still-to-be-formally-adopted Local Development Plan, a new site of about 20 acres will be needed to serve the Perth area.
Farmland off Isla Road, south of Scone Palace, and two other spots in the Perth West zone are being considered.
