Wealden District Council is looking to provide a crematorium and garden of remembrance within the district to offer a local service for bereaved families.
The Council have found an appropriate site in Horam parish, about three miles south of Heathfield. Kent and Sussex Crematorium on Benhall Mill Road in Tunbridge Wells will remain the closest location to Crowborough for cremations, but as Council Leader Bob Standley explained, the new crematorium will give a closer alternative for residents in the middle of the district:
Currently cremations can only take place outside of the District, which means a long journey for many bereaved families to either Eastbourne or Tunbridge Wells, as well as difficulties in finding a suitable time due to demand at those facilities.
We have identified a need for a crematorium closer to the centre of the District, together with a garden of remembrance which can provide a convenient focal point for grieving families and friends.
Before proceeding further, we have begun talking to a number of interested parties, including religious groups and providers of funeral services, as to how best we can meet this need. We are also interested in hearing the views of the public and of their experiences of the current situation.
We have identified an appropriate site on the edge of Horam. We are now developing our plans to deliver a first-class facility in this semi-rural location, which will feature a discreet, low profile crematorium, surrounded by a landscaped garden of remembrance.
The Council estimates that there is a need within the District alone to provide for some 1,200 cremations a year. The facility will meet all of the latest, stringent environmental safeguards, will provide ample car parking spaces and include appropriate proposals to manage traffic visiting the site.
Members of the public who would like to share their views about the provision of a crematorium and garden of remembrance in the District should email info@wealden.gov.uk.
