CONSTRUCTION at a crematorium is due to get underway next month.

Darlington Borough Council is starting the work at West Cemetery, in Carmel Road North, in April.

The £6.4m investment will see a new chapel with seats for more than 100 people, replacement of cremators and equipment, modernisation of facilities, and an additional car park and is due to be completed by April 2022.

Ian Thompson, the council’s assistant director of community services, said: “This major investment represents our aspiration to enhance the service provided to bereaved families. The current facility has served us well, and it’s time to install efficient, more environmentally friendly equipment.

"We are taking the opportunity to update our facilities in order to provide a modern cremation service fit for future generations.”

The plans were approved last year, when some changes were made to meet residents’ concerns over flooding and screening.

When completed, it will be possible to stream services to accommodate larger gatherings and people unable to attend the service.

Services will continue to take place at West Cemetery Chapel while work is underway. The Book of Remembrance room will be relocated to the front of the existing crematorium building on or before May 10, and access paths have been created into the Garden of Remembrance located at the back of crematorium.

Mr Thompson added: “We expect minimum disruption for residents and bereaved families and are working closely with contractors and funeral directors to ensure services continue to be respectful, professional and dignified.”

The council’s bereavement services team will relocate from the Town Hall to the crematorium building when renovations are complete.

To contact the cemetery and crematorium office call 01325 406744 or email crematoria.burials@darlington.gov.uk