Worcester residents have been invited to have their say on plans to refurbish Astwood Crematorium.

Draft plans will be on display in the crematorium chapel on Tintern Avenue on Wednesday, October 23, from 5pm to 7pm.

The community has been encouraged to come along and give their views on the proposals for the refurbishment scheme.

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At the heart of the refurbishment is the replacement of the site’s three gas-powered cremators, installed in 1997, with two new electrical cremators.

The new cremators will comply with current environmental standards, significantly reduce the site’s carbon emissions.

Other ambitions of the project are a reconfigured chapel with a flexible space to accommodate larger congregations, improvements to manage the flow of people and vehicles, a new and extended covered area for hearses and cars, a new reception, vestry, and family room.

Councillor Lynn Denham, chair of the council’s policy and resources committee, said: "This is a much-loved site in our city and it is important that local people are engaged with the important work that is set to take place at the crematorium.

"I would encourage anyone who is interested to come along to the drop-in event on Wednesday, October 23, from 5pm to 7pm, take a look at the draft proposals, talk to the design experts who will be there, and share their views on this major investment in our city.

"We know that making changes to the crematorium will be a sensitive matter for many local people, so we want your input to make sure we get this right."

Anyone who cannot attend the drop-in session will be able to view the draft proposals and give their views at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit until Thursday, October 31.

Printed versions of the consultation are available by calling the crematorium on 01905 22633 from Wednesday 23 until Thursday, October 31.

Following the consultation, more detailed plans will be developed and taken to Worcester City Councillors for approval in November.

A planning application will then be submitted, which will be subject to a period of formal consultation.