Busy location sparks concern on Facebook
Bannockburn ward councillor Alasdair MacPherson flagged up the submission of the crematorium application to his constituents this week.
As chair and member of Stirling Council’s planning panel he is unable to give his opinion on the application at this stage in the planning process without ultimately disqualifying himself from the panel’s considerations, however locals were quick to respond to his Facebook post with their thoughts.
While some felt the site was an ideal spot for a crematorium, others were unhappy with the proposals.
Liz Condie said:“I think it’s a great idea. Stirling needs a crematorium and this site would be ideal.”
William Derrick agreed, adding:“It will save having to travel all the way to Falkirk. I think the people from Stirling and around should have had this ages ago.”
Molly Ferguson felt it was a “good idea”but added:“They need to look at the infrastructure and entry road into to it. That road is a nightmare in the winter and an ambulance route and need to make sure it won’t hold up traffic.”
“I think it’s a great idea. It covers a large area and takes pressure off Falkirk,”said Shirley Cattigan.
Others, however, were less happy.
James Landels said:“The accommodation for mourners and cars has been increased from previous proposal.
“Still worried about entrance and exit out onto such a busy road even although they have now been separated. I’m not saying it should not be there, saying traffic is a problem on that road.”
Georgina McClenaghan said: “Stirling does need a crematorium but why has Bannockburn been identified as suitable? The site is already on the eastern side of Stirling, a very short distance from the current crematorium at Camelon – it would be much more logical to have it on the western side of Stirling to serve the outlying areas not already within close proximity to a crematorium.
“For example Killin’s closest crematorium is currently Perth (45 miles), Camelon 47 miles and Bannockburn would be 41 miles – a difference of four miles. The site itself is a pinnacle surrounded by exceptionally busy roads with a phenomenal volume of daily road users, not to mention the main route to FVRH from Stirlingshire and a lorry refuelling depot a short distance away.”
Lesley McPherson said:“I agree Stirling needs a new crematorium but definitely not on the site of the old Bannockburn Hospital. It’s a very beautiful place looking on to the Ochil hills.
“The site is too close to the village of Bannockburn and too close to Bannockburn House. The traffic on that roundabout is so busy with the increased traffic to the hospital.”