Ageing cremators to be replaced in upgrade plan

A multimillion-pound investment to upgrade a crematorium in Scarborough is set to be approved.

The existing gas-powered cremators, which last for about 20 years, were installed at Woodlands Crematorium in 2004 and need replacing, according to North Yorkshire Council.

Research estimates that upgraded cremators can reduce gas consumption by 25% compared to the older facilities and replacing them with like-for-like was the most cost-effective option, the authority said.

A report said over the last three financial years, annual servicing and call-out maintenance costs for the cremators have cost more than £150,000.

The new cremators, which would be installed as part of a £2.5m upgrade, would be able to accommodate larger coffins and enable more cremations to be carried out.

Richard Foster, executive member for managing the environment, said: "Woodlands Crematorium in Scarborough has provided a valued service for coastal communities over the last 65 years, and we must make sure that it continues to do so.

"The decision to choose like-for-like replacement cremators, rather than electric or hybrid alternatives, would ensure the crematorium stays operational while they are installed and is the most cost-effective option."

The total estimated cost of replacing gas with electric cremators is approximately £3m, not including any contingencies, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Foster said: "The reduction in gas consumption would cut carbon emissions and improve air quality, both of which support our net zero target of 2030 and would contribute to a more environmentally friendly cremation process."

More than 3,000 cremations have taken place at Woodlands Crematorium over the past three years.

Funding is set to be approved at a council meeting on 4 August.

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