Have your say on crematorium upgrade plans

RESIDENTS and businesses are invited to have their say on planned improvements to Darlington Crematorium.

Earlier this month, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet agreed to make progress with plans for a new chapel and refurbished crematorium in West Cemetery, Carmel Road North.

Ahead of the submission of a planning application, a consultation drop-in event is being organised for people and businesses to register their views.

This will take place at the Dolphin Centre, between noon and 7pm on Thursday 7 November.

Councillor Paul Howell, Cabinet member for Leisure and Local Environment, said: “This consultation drop-in event is an ideal opportunity for anyone with an interest in this project to come along and find out about the initial proposals.

“We have chosen to run it through to 7pm in the evening, to allow people to come along after work if they wish.

“For anyone who is unable to attend this event for whatever reason, but would still like to comment on the plans, this can be done through the council’s website.

“What we are proposing would see a modernisation of the crematorium service, at the same time as replacing ageing plant and equipment.

“One area a number of local residents have already spoken to me about is the proposal to create a through-road to Pond Field close, exiting onto Salutation Road, creating a one way system. It’s important to note that this would not be used by all vehicles leaving the cemetery and some would continue to exit via Carmel Road North.

“I would encourage people to come along to the event on 7 November, find out exactly what is being suggested and let us know what they think.”

Darlington has had a crematorium since 1901 and was one of the first places in the country to have such a facility.

Subject to planning permission being granted, work could begin as early as April next year and be completed by March 2021.

Anyone who is not able to attend the consultation drop-in can email their comments to [email protected] up until Thursday 21 November.

The proposals will be available to view online the day after the consultation event.