Work has begun on the new Hambleton Crematorium on the outskirts of Thirsk, that will aim to lower the area’s carbon footprint.
Contractor Willmott Dixon has started work on the multi-million-pound Hambleton District Council project which will feature a revolutionary electric cremator.
The 22-acre site which will be named Maple Park, and will be close to both the A1 and A19 and will include a service hall to accommodate approximately 120 mourners plus additional room for standing. There will also be an entrance foyer, waiting lobby, offices and a family room.
As well as this, the single storey facility will include a wake facility and café with views out over the Hambleton hills. Once completed the site will also offer a memorial garden, meadows and a wooded area for reflection or for scattering ashes.
Temporary access will be created for use throughout the build, to ensure the landscaping can mature as much as possible, ready for the opening.
Leader of Hambleton District Council, Mark Robson, said: “Its great news that work is getting started this week on this much needed and significant development.
“This facility is essential for our district, with mourners currently having to travel at least 40 minutes, to lay their loved ones to rest and often having to wait lengthy times to get a slot which is an added strain at an already difficult time.
“I am confident the state-of-the-art facility combined with the rural setting will offer people an appropriate and peaceful experience.”
