Phase 2 of Nieuwedrift Cemetery development set to begin in February

Work on the second phase of the Nieuwedrift Cemetery development on the outskirts of Paarl is set to begin in early February 2026, according to the Drakenstein Municipality.

The next phase of construction will include bulk earthworks to create around 700 new burial sites, the establishment of a temporary parking area, the construction of access roads, the installation of stormwater infrastructure, and partial fencing of the site.

The upgrades form part of the ongoing development of the Nieuwdedrift Cemetery to improve capacity and accessibility for the community.

"Construction activity may cause temporary disruptions in and around the cemetery area," the municipality said in a statement. 

The municipality added that all work will be carried out in accordance with municipal, environmental, and safety standards, with efforts made to minimise inconvenience to surrounding areas.

Phase three of the cemetery development is scheduled to commence in July 2026.