Coronavirus: Poole and Dorchester temporary mortuary sites agreed

The site at Poole Port will be up and running from 20 April

Two temporary mortuary sites are being created in Dorset to prepare for a rise in deaths due to coronavirus.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council and Dorset Council said the sites would be used "if and when required".

One at Poole Port will be ready from Monday and one at the Old Radio Station in Dorchester is expected by May.

Dorset Council leader Spencer Flower said the council had to plan for the "worst-case scenario".

"We appreciate that this topic is a difficult one for everyone," he said.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council leader, Vikki Slade said: "I'd like to reassure our communities that these are temporary sites, being installed so that we can accommodate a potential increase in the number of deceased safely, compassionately and respectfully."

It has not been confirmed how many bodies could be stored at each site.

To serve Hampshire, Portsmouth and Southampton during the coronavirus outbreak Southampton Airport is to become a temporary mortuary.

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