Residents have their say ...

Muthu Reddy, 73, Sastri Park: “There has been a desperate need for a cremation facility in the Phoenix area as it causes much inconvenience for residents to travel long distances to other crematoriums. However, it should be government owned and run, as private facilities cost a lot of money that many people cannot afford.”

Surendra Heeralall, 48, Palmview: “The development of a crematorium is something great for the community, as residents don’t have to travel long distances. There also won’t be any harm caused to residents from the smoke. The cemetery is at a distance from residential homes.”

Mary Kanniappen, 60, Palmview: “Although it is a great idea to have a crematorium in Phoenix, we want it to be run by the municipality. Funerals are very expensive on its own and many people cannot afford to pay the price at the private crematoriums, so we would rather it be municipal owned.”

Marilyn Subbiah, 44, Sunford: “This has been a huge challenge faced by our community, so it would be most welcome. It does not matter whether it is public or private, as long as we will now benefit from a crematorium within Phoenix. Families have had to travel out of Phoenix, have to then wait for availability and a further wait for the remains of their loved one.”

Amy Padayachee, 38, Grove End: “I think that having a crematorium in Phoenix will be a great idea as it is in dire need of a facility like this one. It will definitely be accessible to all. There won’t be overcrowding at other crematoriums due to the shortage of grave sites. However, we prefer it to be owned by the municipality as it will ensure the poor is given a dignified funeral.”