Issue - meetings

The Bereavement Services Manager submitted a report on matters relating to the operation of the Crematorium.

Information on cremation totals, comparisons with national and regional data, and geographical information on which areas funerals had been received from in 2020/21 was provided in Section 2 of the officer’s report. It was noted that numbers were considerably lower than they were at the height of the pandemic.

It was explained to the committee that there were almost two years worth of projects to complete that had been delayed by the pandemic and some of these were already underway. It was noted that the woodland walkway needed some repair work and a quote had been obtained to increase the number of pond markers as the remaining space was limited.

The Bereavement Services Manager advised the committee that the City Road Crematorium in Sheffield was closing for a temporary period and this may result in increased numbers. However, having dealt with the high numbers during the pandemic, he was confident that any additional services could be dealt with without concern.

The results of a stakeholder survey were attached to the report showing positive feedback and also the results of an inspection by the Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities that took place in June, for which a 96% compliance score was received.

It was explained to the committee that an asbestos survey had been carried out which resulted in a recommendation from the Chesterfield Borough Council Health and Safety Advisor to carry out work necessary to make safe two areas at the crematorium.

RESOLVED –

1.    That the report, including the results from the Annual Satisfaction Survey be noted.

2.    That additional of £21,000 be approved for use for the development and repair of the pond and woodland walk area. 

3.    That the £14,000 cost of carrying out necessary asbestos related works be retrospectively approved.