Protecting Peace and Privacy at Weymouth Crematorium

To help maintain a peaceful and respectful environment for grieving families, Dorset Council will be reinstating a section of wall at Weymouth Crematorium during the week commencing 27 October. This will close an informal opening at the rear of the site on Shirecroft Road.

The gap was created created solely to serve the Council’s temporary access needs. However, it has since become an unofficial cut-through, resulting in significant disruption during funeral services.

The crematorium and surrounding grounds serve the bereaved.  While many people using the route may be unaware of the impact and disturbance, significant concerns have been raised about the lack of privacy and reverence during services and moments of remembrance. 

Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Housing, said:

"The crematorium and surrounding grounds are primarily there to serve the bereaved. It is important for us to maintain a peaceful and respectful environment for grieving families at such a sensitive time.

 "There is a designated public footpath that runs just outside the crematorium boundary via Wiltshire Avenue and Cornwall Close.  This remains the most appropriate route for those travelling through the area.

"We thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us preserve a respectful space for those saying goodbye to loved ones."

Access for mourners and visitors to the crematorium will not be affected. This action is solely about closing an unintended access point to ensure the grounds and the bereaved are provided with privacy, dignity and sensitivity.

The work is scheduled for the half-term period to minimise disruption.