Public asked for views on crematorium refurbishment

How the revamped crematorium chapel may look, should plans be permitted.

Plans for a major refurbishment of Astwood Crematorium in Worcester are being put to the public for feedback.

Worcester City Council wants to replace the site’s three gas-powered cremating devices, installed in 1997, with two new electrical ones, as well as reconstructing the chapel on Tintern Avenue.

Public consultation into the plans will run until 31 October.

Councillor Lynn Denham said she understood making changes to the crematorium would be a sensitive matter but public input was important to "make sure we get this right".

The new devices would comply with current environmental standards, in what the council said would "significantly reduce the site’s carbon emissions".

Plans for the new chapel include a larger congregation area, a new and extended covered area for hearses and cars as well as a new reception, vestry and family room.

Ms Denham said:“ I would encourage anyone who is interested to come along to the drop-in event on Wednesday 23 October from 17:00 to 19:00 BST, take a look at the draft proposals, talk to the design experts who will be there, and share their views on this major investment in our city."

Draft plans will be on display in the crematorium chapel and if permission is granted, construction work is expected to begin in summer 2025 and last for about nine months.

The council said during that period, alternative arrangements for cremations and services would be put in place and the grounds of the cemetery on Astwood Road would remain open.