A major refurbishment project at Worcester Crematorium, which has seen its ageing cremators replaced and facilities upgraded, has now been completed.
The Astwood Road crematorium has fully reopened following the extensive programme of works, which took just over a year to complete.
As part of the project, three gas-powered cremators have been replaced with two modern electric units, significantly reducing the site's carbon footprint.
Other improvements include a new roof fitted with solar panels, a heat recovery system, electric vehicle charging points and enhancements to the surrounding grounds to boost biodiversity.
The refurbished chapel now features a larger window, allowing more natural light into the building and providing views of a new focal-point garden of solace.
A new focal point in the chapel is a mural created by Chroma Chameleons, two female neurodivergent artists from Worcester. The design was inspired by the plant life at Astwood Cemetery.
Councillor Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council, said: “I’m pleased to see Worcester Crematorium has now reopened and returned to being a place where families can come together to remember and say goodbye to loved ones.
“Replacing the old gas-powered cremators was essential to modernise Worcester Crematorium, and this significant investment by the City Council has given us the opportunity to make a range of wider improvements across the site.
“We understand it has been difficult for families who have had to travel outside Worcester for cremations while this work has been carried out, and we would like to thank residents, funeral directors and all those affected for their patience and understanding.
“Now that the crematorium has fully reopened, these improvements will benefit visitors for many years to come.”
Councillor Karen Lewing, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council’s Environment Committee, added: “The refurbished chapel provides a brighter, fresher and more welcoming environment for visitors, while the new focal-point garden and biodiversity enhancements will further improve the surroundings in the years ahead.
“The new electric cremators, solar panels and other energy-saving measures will help reduce the site's environmental impact and support the Council's commitment to a more sustainable future.”
Malvern-based Speller Metcalfe have carried out the work on behalf of Worcester City Council.
The refurbishment project received a £1.49 million grant towards the new electric cremators awarded through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. This supports energy-efficiency projects and is run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and delivered by Salix.
