In the mid-1980s, Mainz considered replacing the burial sites in almost every district with a few large central facilities. The West District Cemetery was one of them. However, the desire for 'local mourning' ultimately prevailed and the idea was rejected. This also meant that the planned expansion of the site between Finthen and Drais was off the table. However, it retained its justification: as the closest cemetery to Lerchenberg, as a burial alternative for Finthen and Drais, and—due to its exposed location—as a visible link between all three districts.