The new Maldon Fields crematorium is progressing on schedule and aims to "bring dignity back" to funeral services.
Four months after the start of construction, the foundations are in place and internal roads built, with the building's frame set to follow soon.
Elegy, the crematorium developer, says work is on track to be completed by the end of the year.
Managing director Richard Evans said: "We pushed to start work in January as we know how important it is for our new service to be ready by the end of the year so that local bereaved families can be looked after close to home in beautiful surroundings."
The rise of direct cremations, increased by the Covid-19 pandemic, has led some to fear the loss of traditional ceremonies.
Mr Evans is keen to keep funeral services personal and dignified.
He said: "Families need to be given the chance to have a traditional funeral service again – where they can individually design the funeral in a place where there is space, time and a beautiful setting close to home, surrounded by friends and family.
"I still feel it is essential that people gather together to mourn someone they have loved rather than opting for a direct funeral where there is no certainty when and where the funeral will take place."
Funeral director Paul King, of Paul J King Funeral Directors, said: "It is very reassuring to see how hard everyone is working to complete the crematorium in time for the winter when it is needed most."
The crematorium will offer one-hour slots for funerals, and hopes to carry out two to three services a day.
Mr King believes this will offer a more personalised feel, adding: "This should make a tremendous difference as it is so important that each funeral is allowed enough time to have a dignified, personal event, free from the sight of other funerals.
"Ultimately, I think this is what the bereaved yearn for.
"We provide funerals for all needs and I will certainly be making use of the new crematorium at Maldon Fields, as we can trust that everything will be looked after to the highest standard with the family able to hold the funeral of their choice."
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