These proposals, put forward by the Law Commission, aim to repurpose graveyards that were declared full during the Victorian era.
The independent commission, which reviews laws in England and Wales, highlighted the urgency of the situation as cities across the country face a dwindling supply of burial plots.
Under the new proposals, any burial ground could potentially be reused, but this would only be allowed after public consultations and with government approval.
According to reports, strict guidelines would ensure that graves can only be reused if the last burial took place at least 75 years ago.
Another public consultation is underway to discuss the specific timeframes for grave reuse and how to handle objections from family members.
Professor Nick Hopkins, Commissioner for Property, Family, and Trust Law, emphasised that the proposed changes would require careful consideration and input from the public.
Current laws prohibit the redevelopment of graveyards for any purpose, except if the land is being used to expand or build a place of worship. Public cemeteries, however, can be repurposed if the owner is granted an Act of Parliament.
The public consultation on these proposals is open until January 2025.