Temporary crematorium equipment set to be given the go-ahead

Plans to install new equipment at Sunderland Crematorium are set to be given the green light next week.

Sunderland City Council submitted proposals in 2019 for an extra cremator at Bishopwearmouth Cemetery.

The temporary equipment will be housed inside a 20-foot steel container at the rear of the existing crematorium.

It will also include a 7.6m flue and a plywood fence to screen the site from the public.

A report to the council states the plans will “ensure business continuity, protect the operation of the crematorium and mitigate against the risk of delays to customers”. It goes on to say the structure has acceptable design, “subject to colour and screening to minimise the visual impact against the host premises”.

As previously reported in the Echo, council bosses have already earmarked £7.5million for a replacement city crematorium with

“extended parking facilities.”

Spending plans include £1.5million in 2020/21 and £6million in 2021/22.

This forms part of the council’s capital programme which is set to be signed off by the full council next week.

However, the temporary cremator plans are not linked to these ongoing budget proposals.

The temporary cremator has been recommended for approval by planning officers.

It includes permission for the structure to remain on site until September 30, 2022.

City leaders would have the option to either renew the planning permission or return the site to its former condition.

The council’s area Development Control SubCommittee will discuss the scheme on Monday, March 2.

The planning meeting starts at 5.15pm at Sunderland Civic Centre and is open to the public.