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New Chapelton crematorium approved to meet ‘significant’ demand

Councillors have backed plans for a new crematorium at Chapelton. Image: WCP Architects
Councillors have backed plans for a new crematorium at Chapelton. Image: WCP Architects

Plans for a new crematorium at Chapelton have been given the go-ahead to meet “significant” demand for services.

Southesk Farms lodged an application for the new crematorium on the Elsick Estate near Newtonhill last October.

They wanted to build a new hall and crematorium next to the walled garden of the historic Elsick House.

The former swimming pool building that will be knocked down. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson

A swimming pool building currently on the site will be demolished to make way for the new facility.

The application was initially considered by councillors last month but they agreed to visit the site first due to concerns over parking.

Council planners had recommended the plan be approved.

Why is there a demand for the Chapelton crematorium?

Jonathan Dymock from Southesk Farms said there is “significant” demand for a crematorium to cover Aberdeenshire and North Angus.

He told members that Baldarroch Crematorium out at Crathes is fully booked and supports the new site as it would save grieving families from having to wait.

Peterhead funeral director Robert Mackie has also given his support to the development.

An artist’s impression of the proposed crematorium hall. Image: WCP Architects

Mr Dymock added: “There is a growing population, a greater proportion are wishing to be cremated so the huge demand is certainly needed to be satisfied.”

He revealed the new crematorium would offer services lasting an hour and a half, and argued that having four cremations a day would lead to less demand on surrounding roads.

Chapelton hall to host weddings and funerals

The Chapelton building has been specifically designed so the hall can be used for alternative purposes.

The location of the cremator building means the hall can act as a standalone facility for weddings and community events.

An artist impression of the new Elsick crematorium. Image: WCP Architects

The crematorium is expected to operate four and a half days a week – from Monday to Thursday and Friday mornings.

Outside of these times, the hall would be available for alternative uses.

What did councillors have to say about the crematorium this time?

Committee chairwoman Wendy Agnew said she had “no hesitation” granting the application.

Councillor Alison Evison added: “The nature of what’s available on the site already is important when thinking about transport and travel arrangements that people have been concerned about.”

The committee then unanimously approved the application.

You can watch the discussion below:

Conversation