THE construction of a fence, an amenities block, gravel around future grave sites and the relocation of a brick gate are some of the changes which will go ahead at Narellan Cemetery (pictured) after Camden Council approved a plan last week.

Paul Davies, a heritage consultant commissioned by the Lebanese Muslim Association — owners of the cemetery — said a "modest" development application had gone before the council .

He said the shortage of burial space in Sydney was a fundamental problem.

"The proposal was lodged to look after existing graves and the site's heritage significance," he said. "(It was) also make the site more usable to fit Muslim burial rituals."

Mr Davies said as part of Muslim rituals they needed amenities to wash their hands.

Councillors visited the cemetery before the approval was granted.

A list of conditions on the construction plans were imposed, including interpretive signage and the propagation of seeds from an endangered plant on the site.

Other conditions were to ensure the heritage significance was maintained, that disabled and car access was maintained, and that unmarked graves in stage one would be investigated.

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