Construction of a new crematorium which will serve the residents of south and west Hertfordshire has been marked with a ground-breaking ceremony.
The facility near Hemel Hempstead will be a sister-site to the current West Herts Crematorium in Garston and it is being developed to provide additional capacity.
The site on land next to Bedmond Road at Bunkers Park near Leverstock Green is expected to be completed by early spring 2023 after work began in November.
The West Herts Crematorium Joint Committee, which is made up of representatives of five local authorities in Hertfordshire, says the new crematorium will reduce the time families have to wait to schedule a funeral for a loved-one.
Service times can also be increased from 40 minutes to an hour so there is more time for individual ceremonies. The new crematorium will feature a remembrance chapel next to the Poppy Fields Cemetery.
Recently, representatives from Watford Borough Council, Three Rivers District Council, Hertsmere Borough Council, Dacorum Borough Council, and St Albans District Council attended a ceremony to mark a milestone in the development.
Watford deputy mayor Cllr Aga Dychton, who attended the event, said: "This is an important occasion for Watford and our neighbouring councils - it is great to see the site taking shape for our new crematorium.
"This facility will be a most welcome addition to our community and will allow us to provide a high-quality service to those who want to say goodbye to their loved ones in a beautiful and tranquil place."
Hertsmere borough councillor Seamus Quilty, who has environmental responsibilities, added: "Ensuring a person is laid to rest in a timely, peaceful and life-affirming manner and that families have a chance to grieve and be together is a priority for us, as a council.
"This project means everyone will have the space and time to remember and commemorate their loved ones in the best way for them."
The joint committee, which oversees the management and operation of the existing crematorium in Garston will also manage the new facility.
It will operate on the same basis as the existing crematorium with services running Monday to Friday and general enquiries on Saturdays.
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