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Westerleigh Group has announced its plans for a new “state-of-the-art” modern crematorium that will serve the communities in and around Leeds and Wakefield.
For the first time, the facility will also offer the option of a natural burial, which is increasingly becoming a preferred choice for many.
The new development, which would be situated on a 20-acre site in Oulton, would help address the current pressures faced by existing crematoria serving the area, which are struggling to meet growing demand.
A purpose-built modern chapel building would also contain seating for a minimum of 112 mourners, with overflow standing areas.
In addition, there’s plans for 136 parking spaces, including disabled, electric vehicle and coach provision.
Ian McArdle, chief property officer at Westerleigh Group, said: “There is currently no provision on the eastern side of Leeds, and we believe that those communities along with communities in the wider Leeds and Wakefield areas would benefit from having the choice of a new modern crematorium and natural burial ground.
“Our new site will offer more choice, give families on the eastern side of Leeds something more convenient in terms of travel time, and offer the bereaved more time and privacy to say their final farewells.”
He added: “Local Funeral Directors have told us families living in and around Leeds have to travel outside the area if they wish to have a natural burial, which can cause difficulties, leading to distress, when they want to visit the place where their loved one was laid to rest.”
