Decision details

To consider recommendations concerning the construction of a second new chapel; access roads to and from the new crematorium; and any other relevant recommendations.

RESOLVED THAT

1.    the approach to providing public access to and from the new crematorium, including the development, subject to planning consent, of a new permanent road linking the new facility to Bouncer’s Lane be approved (See option ‘Route B’ at Appendix 2);

2.    the appropriation of land on prior’s farm playing field from use as open space to cemetery use be approved and authority be delegated to the Head of Property and Asset Management to carry out the appropriation should planning permission for the development of the crematorium and access road be granted;

3.    it be noted that a temporary route for construction traffic leading to the new crematorium will be required, with the preferred route to be informed by professional advice and the results of public consultation, provided in a supplementary update;

4.    subject to Council agreeing the additional project budget, the construction of a second chapel in conjunction with the new crematorium be approved.

5.    It be agreed that further work be programmed to review the options for repurposing the existing chapels and how the associated costs can be further mitigated to improve scheme viability.

Council be recommended to :

Allocate the budget for the construction of a second new chapel, including the use of the capital receipt of £275,000 from the sale of the cemetery lodge and £373,000 from the revenue budget reserve arising from the introduction of new crematorium fees in 2017-18, with the balance of £352,000 being supported by prudential borrowing.