MAJOR improvements to Distington Hall Crematorium have been given the go-ahead.

The scheme was voted through unanimously by Copeland Council’s planning panel.

The £500,000 project includes modifications inside and out that aim to enhance the experience for guests and improve operational areas for staff. Work is scheduled to begin in October and is expected to take around six months.

The plans for the Copeland Council-owned facility have been produced following consultation with funeral directors, celebrants, members of the clergy and elected representatives.

The overhaul features an enlarged opening between the chapel and lobby to allow for extra seating for larger funerals and a new covered entrance canopy where guests can congregate.

The plans also include a covered exit walkway with a designated area for floral tributes; the refurbishment of the chapel and other public areas; the creation of a private meeting area; new toilets and improved staff areas.

Further to the planning application, a second cremator has been installed at the crematorium to improve efficiency and environmental performance. Landscape improvements are also planned.

Reacting to the decision, Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “I am delighted that this project has been awarded planning permission.

“We know that Distington Hall Crematorium is in need of an upgrade to make it a more attractive facility for our guests and more operationally efficient for our staff, and the work will deliver just that.

“This is the next phase in the ongoing modernisation and improvement of our bereavement services that has already included significant improvements at our cemeteries.

“Our project team has worked closely with stakeholders and users of the crematorium to ensure that the changes meet their needs. We will continue to take their feedback on board and are grateful for their input.”

Christian Judd, Director of Architects Plus, added: “Following an extensive design process, we have devised a scheme that aims to maximise the potential of the existing building but which can also be delivered with minimal disruption to the everyday operations of the facility.

“We fully appreciate the sensitive nature of the building and the services they provide and so the works will be phased in discrete sections, with the majority of the work taking place outside normal operating hours.”

Further to the planning application, a second cremator has been installed at the crematorium to improve efficiency and environmental performance. Landscape improvements are also planned.

The crematorium is used by residents in both Copeland and Allerdale.