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Dorset Council has announced that a section of wall at Weymouth Crematorium is to be reinstated this week to restore privacy and peace for grieving families.
The works, which began on Monday (27 October), aim to close an informal gap at the rear of the site on Shirecroft Road. The opening was initially created to provide temporary access for council works, but has since become an unofficial pedestrian route.
According to the council, this shortcut had caused “significant disruption” during funeral services and moments of remembrance. The crematorium and its gardens are intended as spaces for quiet reflection, and concerns had been raised about noise and disturbance from people using the route.
Cllr Gill Taylor, cabinet member for health and housing at Dorset Council, said: “The crematorium and surrounding grounds are primarily there to serve the bereaved. It is important for us to maintain a peaceful and respectful environment for grieving families at such a sensitive time.
“There is a designated public footpath that runs just outside the crematorium boundary via Wiltshire Avenue and Cornwall Close. This remains the most appropriate route for those travelling through the area.”
She added: “We thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us preserve a respectful space for those saying goodbye to loved ones.”
The council said access for mourners and visitors to the crematorium will not be affected. The reinstatement is intended only to close an unintended access point. Work has been scheduled for the half-term period to minimise disruption.
