A MAJOR improvement project at Distington Hall Crematorium is under way.
Copeland Council agreed to the significant investment in its budget for 2018/19, and an internal project team has been established to oversee the work.
Improvements planned at the crematorium include an upgrade of the building and grounds, and the creation of a second smaller chapel for more intimate services.
Also planned is the purchase of a second cremator, which will improve efficiency and make the service more environmentally friendly. It is hoped that the work will take between 12 and 18 months to complete.
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “This is an important project for the council and a lot of hard work is going on behind the scenes towards delivering it.
“When the work is complete, it will bring about a wider range service options we can offer at the crematorium, and an increased level of comfort for guests.
“The work at the crematorium is just part of a suite of improvements across our bereavement service.”
An improvement recently introduced at the crematorium is already proving a popular addition to services.
Families can now pay tribute to their loved ones with a special audio-visual service, which allows music, photographs and videos to be played during the service. The service is also available to take home on a USB stick afterwards.
Mr Starkie added: “We are pleased to be able to offer this extra service, and are glad that it is being well-received.
“We are finding that the audio-visual service is increasing in popularity through word-of-mouth. People who have attended services that have used the facility are clearly letting others know that it can be a poignant way to remember a person and the special events and times in their life.”
For more information, contact Copeland Council’s Bereavement Services Team on 01946 830561 or [email protected].
