The long-awaited Tranquility Park Cemetery on Sir Sydney Walling Highway will open for burials on 1 September, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph has announced.

Sir Molwyn said the new facility would be managed under stricter rules to preserve dignity and order. Graves will be dug to nine feet, allowing two interments per plot, and disruptive behaviour such as loud music, alcohol or drug use will be banned. Security will enforce the regulations, with visiting hours set from 6am to 6pm.

In keeping with government’s environmental policies, artificial flowers will not be permitted and vending will be tightly regulated.

“The management of this cemetery must be professional and reverent. It is about honouring the dead in a respectful way,” Sir Molwyn said.