Vale of Leven Cemetery could be extended after councillors agreed to purchase a neighbouring piece of land.

The plot in question - a field south of Alexandria's Overton Road - had previously been assessed as being suitable for use as a burial ground.

It is estimated to provide at least 20 years’ worth of new burial lairs.

Councillors discussed the £90,000 purchase of the field at the infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee last Wednesday.

The expansion of the burial site has been an issue on West Dunbartonshire council's radar for some time as by law they have a duty to provide the service to the town.

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A report to the housing environment and economic development committee back in 2014 highlighted the issue that the cemetery was nearing capacity, but that space could run out in around two years' time.

The field that the council has agreed to purchase is currently used as open grazing for horses.

Councillor Iain McLaren, convener of the infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee, said: “Vale of Leven Cemetery is nearing capacity and as a council, we have a statutory requirement to provide burial sites for our residents.

“The purchase of this land is a firm commitment to finding a solution to this.

“The land is right next door, suitable for use as a cemetery, and of a size that makes the purchase worthwhile, so this is a step in the right direction.”

Following the decision, negotiations of the sale of land will now be concluded

Proposals for the site will now be considered by the Planning Committee.