The eagerly anticipated extension to the Addolorata Cemetery has been approved by the planning authority.

The authority said yesterday that the extension, located in an area known as Tal-Ħorr, limits of Luqa, would run along the existing cemetery’s southern flank. The area has for years been subject to extensive dumping.

The authority said that due to the historical and architectural importance of the Addolorata site, the extension’s design would include the original semi-circular plaza as designed by architect Emanuele Luigi Galizia.

“The design will not only complement but promote continuity within the cemetery,” it said.

To maximise space, the graves have been designed to consist of four tiers with an ossuary below.

The extension project also incorporates an extensive landscaping scheme, which will see the introduction of various tree species to complement the long-standing specimens at the cemetery. Over 55 additional car parking spaces will also be provided along the road leading to the cemetery.