Thorncliffe Crematorium repairs progressing following extensive fire damage

Repair works at Thorncliffe Crematorium in Barrow are making good progress following significant damage caused by a fire earlier this year.

The fire occurred in March, leading to investigations and clean-up efforts to assess the extent of the damage. Initial repair work commenced in May, with more substantial structural repairs, including roof and chimney replacement, starting at the end of June.

While the cremators have been out of action since the fire, chapel-based services briefly resumed in April. However, due to the nature of main repairs, no services have been possible since early July.

Internal redecoration and painting have been completed, restoring various areas of the crematorium. Roof repair works are advancing well, with contractors actively working to replace and restore the structure.

Westmorland and Furness Council, which operates the crematorium, is also investing in upgrading cremators and associated equipment. These improvements aim to modernise and enhance the facility’s resilience and efficiency, ensuring it meets community needs now and in the future.

“The repair project involves a complex programme of work due to the scale of the damage and the specialist nature of the equipment being installed. The progress made to date is encouraging. The council continues to work closely with contractors and key partners to deliver the repairs and improvements safely and efficiently, so we can resume services and cremations as soon as possible and this is anticipated to be late September. Once confirmed, we will provide further updates,” a council spokesperson said.

The council has maintained communication with funeral directors to support affected families and expresses gratitude for the continued patience and understanding during this period of disruption.