A new crematorium is set to open in Hemel Hempstead - boosting provision for families in west Hertfordshire.

The new site, near the Poppy Fields cemetery in Bedmond Road, will be available for visitors to explore over two days before an official opening in the coming months.

David Major, chair of the West Herts Crematorium Joint Committee, said: “We are very pleased to be opening this new crematorium for families in our communities.

Watford Observer:

“Our goal when starting this project was to provide a special and respectful place where people can say goodbye to their loved-ones, and we believe this wonderful facility will do just that.”

Residents are invited to have guided tours on Thursday, August 3, from 10am to 4pm, and Saturday, August 5, from 9am to 1pm.

Hemel Hempstead Crematorium will be one of two in the area alongside sister site West Herts Crematorium in Garston, Watford.

The new development will mean services will go from being 40 minutes to 60 minutes, the committee said.

Cllr Sarah Nelmes, leader of Three Rivers District Council, said: “The opening of this new crematorium is a key moment for families and communities across Three Rivers.

“The new crematorium has been so thoughtfully and creatively designed and will in the future allow time for longer ceremonies which can make such a difference for all those affected by grief.”

The construction began in early 2022, with the official opening planned to be in the coming months.

West Herts Crematorium is one of the busiest in the country, performing over 3,000 cremations annually. With the new site opening, authorities hope it will help reduce wait times for those using the service.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “It is important that we lay our loved ones to rest in a timely way and that we have a beautiful and peaceful place to commemorate them and the lives they have lived.

"This will be an important place of remembrance, playing a solemn role in many people’s lives, so I am very pleased to see the completion of the new crematorium.”