Woodlands Crematorium in Scarborough slated for £2.5 million upgrade
Council to decide on investment for new gas cremators
Woodlands Crematorium in Scarborough may soon undergo a significant upgrade with a planned £2.5 million investment.
North Yorkshire Council is expected to approve the funding on 4th August to replace the existing gas cremators, which were installed in 2004 and are due for renewal.
Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness
The decision to maintain the use of gas cremators, as opposed to switching to electric or hybrid alternatives, was deemed both cost-effective and operationally efficient.
Cllr Richard Foster, NYC's executive member managing the environment, stated: “Woodlands Crematorium in Scarborough has provided a valued service for coastal communities over the last 65 years, and we must make sure that it continues to do so.”
The new cremators are projected to reduce gas consumption by 25 per cent compared to existing units and accommodate larger coffins, potentially increasing the number of cremations.
Environmental Impact
Adopting enhanced cremators aligns with NYC's net zero target for 2030 by minimising carbon emissions and improving air quality.
Cllr Foster noted: “The reduction in gas consumption would cut carbon emissions and improve air quality, both of which support our net zero target of 2030 and would contribute to a more environmentally friendly cremation process.”
Financial Considerations
The current cremators have incurred over £150,000 in servicing and maintenance over the last three years.
While the cost to replace them with electric cremators would double the investment at an estimated £3 million, sticking with gas units was deemed the most feasible option.
Over 3,000 cremations were performed at Woodlands within the past three years, highlighting the vital role of the facility for local communities.
The council aims to commence the replacement next summer following the approval.