Work has begun to update the town’s Parndon Wood Cemetery & Crematorium as part of a major £750,000 refurbishment programme.

The main feature of the programme, which is based on plans announced at the end of last year, will be a stunning new open chapel bathed in light with large bay windows overlooking a water garden and is due to be completed by the beginning of October. While the work is taking place funerals will take place in a specially designed temporary chapel set within the main ornamental lawn.

Other improvements agreed include a larger covered area for mourners to gather, a glazed archway and extra parking. Local people, funeral directors and clergy have all had their say on the scheme. Highlights of the agreed changes include:

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•A complete refurbishment of the chapel, office and all public areas.

•The creation of a much more open, light chapel with large bay windows on both sides overlooking the nearby woodland and a new hedged garden complete with water feature.

•A glazed, arched roof forming the centre piece of a new entrance to the chapel.

•A new overspill car park to relieve congestion and improve the circulation of traffic.

•An enlarged area for mourners to congregate after the funeral and view floral tributes.

•Extra and enhanced landscaping around the chapel, floral tribute area and crematorium complex as a whole.

The revamped design is being overseen by Westerleigh, the private cemetery and crematorium operator which took up management of the service last year. Parndon Wood Crematorium has been leased to the company for 25 years whilst the Council continues to retain ownership. The management deal between Harlow Council and Westerleigh will pave the way for investment of £3 million over the next 25 years. Other major items of investment include two new cremators and emissions control equipment.

(CD)