|
Essential repairs force temporary
closure of Wigan crematorium
Wigan’s crematorium will have
to close for four weeks to allow vital repairs to take place.
Dry rot has been discovered in the roof of the 150 year-old building at
Wigan Cemetery, and the crematorium will be closed from 17th September
until 15th October while contractors carry out major conservation work.
All local funeral directors have been informed, and while the building
is closed, alternative cremation facilities will be available at Howe
Bridge, Bolton, St Helens and Charnock Richard.
In an average month up to 90 cremations take place at Wigan. Cemeteries
manager Tony Bassett said that while the work was essential, he accepted
it would create problems for funeral directors and bereaved families.
He added: “I wish there was another way. We’ve looked at every
alternative and really there is no option but to close for four weeks.
If we don’t do the work now the dry rot will get worse. Part of the roof
will have to be removed and to try and hold services while the work was
continuing would involve an unacceptable loss of dignity.”
Mr Bassett said they were taking the opportunity to redecorate inside
and out, and that facilities would be better when the building reopens.
“In the meantime we can only apologise for the impact we know this will
have on funeral services.”
-ends-
Note to editors
Further information: Tony Bassett, Cemetery Services Manager, tel. 01942
828855.
►
Print this page
►
Return to Trust News
|