Planning application submitted for crematorium in Steppingley
Monday, 11 February 2019
We've submitted a planning application to build a new and contemporary crematorium off Fordfield Road in Steppingley, near Flitwick. Last year, we held a number of public events to gather feedback on
The location is on agricultural land that is well tucked away from sight and there would be additional landscaping to minimise the building's impact on its surroundings. It would have a modern, attractive design, with a tree-lined entrance and low-level lighting. There would be both formal gardens and tranquil areas of meadow, as well as a lake where family and friends can visit and remember their loved ones.
Councillor Richard Wenham, Deputy Council Leader and Executive Member for Corporate Resources, said: "We know that Central Bedfordshire is an area that is set to grow: over the next 20 years we are expecting around 40,000 new homes to be built.
"There is currently no crematorium in Central Bedfordshire, so residents are having to travel to crematoria in other areas which are close to full capacity. We want to make sure our residents have a local service to use during what can be an important and often distressing time. Steppingley is a central location within Bedfordshire, allowing for easy access for all our residents."
We anticipate there would be four to five services a day at the crematorium. Subject to planning approval, construction is estimated to take 12 months.