Council set to open its first crematorium

Plans for a crematorium in Steppingley were first submitted in 2019

A council will open its first crematorium next week.

Central Bedfordshire Council will begin using Oakfield Gardens in Steppingley from 16 May.

It will be the first crematorium in the authority area. The nearest facilities have previously been in Bedford, Luton or Hertfordshire.

The council said the building had been built with sustainability and the environment in mind.

People living in Central Bedfordshire have previously had to use crematoriums in Bedford, Luton or Hertfordshire

John Baker, executive member for finance at the council, said: "Everything has been designed and built with meticulous attention to detail, from the use of sustainable materials in the furniture to the solar panels used to help power the building."

He also praised "landscaping designed to improve biodiversity and provide a peaceful environment for remembrance and reflection".

The site includes a chapel and grounds with a wildflower garden.

A memorial garden is also being made where people can place a plaque to commemorate a loved one.