Crematorium to shut while major work completed
THERE WILL BE EXTRA ROOM FOR VISITORS
SOUTH Shields Crematorium will close its doors to the public next week, while ‘major’ remodelling works are finalised and completed within the building itself.
Work is currently under way on John Reid Road to extend the chapel area into the preexisting courtyard – in a bid to help increase capacity by a total of 126 for larger funerals.
Once complete, the chapel itself will reportedly provide seating for over 200 visitors, while also making extra space for standing attendees.
Although the crematorium has still been able to function since works began in January, the next phase of the remodelling requires a complete closure of the site, which will begin on Monday.
South Tyneside Council is also taking advantage of the closure to upgrade its cremators, which are in dire need of replacement being almost 25 years old. Wider cremators which are set to be installed will accommodate larger coffins, which can currently only be catered for outside the Borough itself.
The cremators are also said to be more energy efficient, and will help to reduce the town’s carbon emissions by around 32 tonnes to 274 tonnes annually. Computer systems and technology which relates to the cremators are also seeing upgrades.
While it will not be possible to hold cremations in the centre itself during the closure, the Bereavement Team is working closely with local funeral directors to help make alternative arrangements for the entirety of the cessation.
Services are scheduled to resume in August, following the completion of the ongoing extension project. The grounds, memorial gardens and Chapel of Remembrance, as well as the office will all remain open throughout the remodelling project.
■ For further information about the improvements to South Shields Crematorium contact the Council’s Bereavement Services on (0191) 427 3190 or visit https://www. southtyneside.gov. uk/.../75413/improvementworks