New Maldon Fields Crematorium opens its doors for first services

Maldon Fields crematorium, built to serve Maldon and surrounding areas, has been completed.

Plans for the new crematorium opposite St Margaret’s Church were approved by the district council back in February 2023.

Construction began back in January and is now complete.

The crematorium will be available for families to book services and to mark completion of the project it has been visited by the Bishop of Bradwell Adam Atkinson.

The Rev Peter Begley, Ven. Adam Atkinson Bishop of Bradwell, and Marian Millington of Elegy (Image: Maldon Fields) The Ven Atkinson, representing the Diocese of Chelmsford, said: "We were delighted to visit the new crematorium on the verge of holding its first funerals and can see how much care and effort has been taken with the bereaved in mind.

"I am sure it will make a meaningful difference with families allowed more time and space for a meaningful service."

The crematorium is expected to see around three or four funerals a day.

Each service will be given a minimum of an hour, to ensure there is no overlap.

The Crematorium from the outside (Image: Maldon Fields)

Richard Siddall, leader of Maldon District Council, said: "I am pleased to see that Maldon Fields Crematorium has begun to serve the local community in their new state-of-the-art facility.

"This new crematorium is set in tranquil countryside and will provide a dignified space for farewells to loved ones closer to home."

The new crematorium will help relieve pressure on Chelmsford, Colchester and Basildon crematoria.

Family funeral director Paul King said: "It’s a great relief that families are now able to choose the new crematorium so they can avoid the long journey to Chelmsford.

"The hourly services makes a big difference too and the setting, even at this early stage, is wonderful."

The surrounding area has been landscaped, with two articulated lorries of trees, hedging and plants installed, and more than 3,000m2 of local turf laid.

Richard Evans, of crematorium developer Elegy, said: "We owe a great debt to our building contractors Moor Manage, who have worked tirelessly to complete this project on time despite all of the usual challenges, including weather at this time of year.

"Many of the trades are local contractors who have taken a real pride in being part of this project.

"Their hard work has paid off, and we are able to hold our first funerals in the first week of December."