New crematorium and cemetery for Brentwood
The construction of Bentley Crematorium and Cemetery is nearing completion and is expected to open this month to serve families in Brentwood and the surrounding area.
This new facility will offer reduced journey times for local bereaved families, as until now the nearest crematoria have been in Upminster or Chelmsford, a distance of 11 to 12 miles away.
Bentley Crematorium and Cemetery will be managed by Dignity, the UK crematoria operator, which has 35 other sites in towns and cities across the country. The crematorium buildings have been designed and constructed by local Essex company Cre8 Building Solutions, and a number of local contractors. The landscaping of the grounds is due to start shortly.
The chapel at Bentley Crematorium will be able to seat over 100visitors with additional standing space for larger services. There are two large television screens in the chapel, which will allow for videos and photographs to be displayed. The chapel also has a number of musical options, a loop facility to help those that have difficulty with hearing, and facilities for the disabled.
Local funeral directors will also have access to the crematorium’s 24-hour booking system, which will allow them to provide an improved service to local families.
“We will be offering service times of up to 45 minutes in duration, with an hour between services, whereas most local authority managed crematoria usually provide services of 20 minutes,” said crematorium manager, Michelle Hales. “This extended service is part of our commitment to the highest standards of client service and ensures that families have the time they need to pay a respectful farewell to their loved one.”
Michelle continued: “Bentley Crematorium and Cemetery will provide the local community with the highest possible standards of service and facilities that are second to none. The grounds of the crematorium and cemetery will continue to be developed so that the visitors have a place of beauty and tranquillity in which to pay their last respects.”
An official opening ceremony and an open day for members of the public who may have any questions about the crematorium or its facilities is being planned for the summer.
