Aberdeenshire Council has promised “sensitivity and professionalism” during work to free up space for new lairs in a north-east graveyard.
The local authority said it was unclear how long it would take to clear Portlethen Cemetery of bedrock.
Last night the work was essential and and apologised in advance for any disruption it might cause.
It has also been promised work will be suspended during funerals and will only be carried out during daylight hours.
The significant and costly works are to begin the coming weeks, with a warning it will make noise and cause the grounds to look unsightly.
The local authority has promised affected areas will be re-turfed and landscaped on completion of the heavy work.
Aberdeenshire Council has struggled to excavate new graves in recent years at the site, mostly due to very large boulders and bedrock under the soil.
Head of landscape services Philip McKay, who has overall responsibility for cemeteries and burials, said: “We appreciate the sensitivities of large scale work in any cemetery and we appreciate this necessary work will cause some noise and disruption to the neighbouring community.
“These works at Portlethen are absolutely essential and I can assure residents that we are treating the situation with sensitivity and professionalism.
“Our team will respect all existing lairs and will be working closely with families on burial options which are suitable and respectful.”
