Hindu and Sikh crematorium plan for farm

The applicants said the facility would be the second in the UK after one currently under construction in South Buckinghamshire

A new crematorium for Hindu and Sikh funerals could be built on a Leicestershire farm.

A late 19th Century farmhouse and outbuildings in East Scraptoft would make way for what would be the second faith-specific facility in the country if approved.

Applicants CDS Group said there was a "strong need" for the proposed crematorium at Scraptoft Lodge Farm as Leicester had the highest population of Hindus and Sikhs outside of London.

Permission is sought from Harborough District Council for two chapels, which the Local Democracy Reporting Service said would be expected to hold six ceremonies a day between them, as well as a dining hall and car and coach parking.

According to the applicants, a faith-specific facility would allow time for Hindu and Sikh traditions that multi-faith crematoriums cannot always accommodate.

These include the laying of gifts and flowers on a coffin before the main chapel service, and having areas of water nearby for the scattering of ashes "to complete the spiritual journey".

Planning documents state the disused farmhouse, outbuildings and barns which would be demolished are vacant and in "varying states of disrepair".

Members of the public have raised concerns about parking and the proposed access on to Keyham Lane East, near the existing Natural Burial Ground.

Residents can comment on the plans until 14 October, with a decision expected on the application by the end of the year.

A planning application to redevelop the farmhouse and its outbuildings as an entertainment complex was previously granted approval by Harborough District Council in October 2022, but this was not carried out.