Aldershot Crematorium has officially reopened following a major refurbishment project carried out by Rushmoor Borough Council over the past year.

Councillors and council staff marked the completion of the work at a special event last week when a commemorative plaque was unveiled.

Significant improvements have been made to modernise the facilities at Aldershot Crematorium during the project. This has included the installation of a second cremator, a new roof, external cladding, extending the covered entrance and improving access for people with disabilities.

Rushmoor councillors cut the ribbon for Aldershot Crematorium's reopening.
Rushmoor councillors cut the ribbon for Aldershot Crematorium's reopening. (RBC)

There is also improved insulation and solar panels as part of the council’s commitment to tackling climate change.

The chapel has also been refurbished, with increased seating capacity for up to 100 mourners. A new picture window overlooks the memorial grounds, and the hall of remembrance is ready to welcome back visitors once again.

Cllr Christine Guinness, Rushmoor’s cabinet member for pride in place and neighbourhood services, said: “Aldershot Crematorium is such an important local facility which has been part of our community since 1960, supporting not only the residents of Aldershot and Farnborough, but also the wider area. I am delighted to see it refurbished with so much care and attention.”

Cllr Guinness added: “The crematorium has always offered a unique and beautiful setting for funeral services and it’s fitting that we now have a new modern facility that sits alongside the services provided by our compassionate and experienced bereavement services team.”

Funeral services will resume at the crematorium from Monday, January 5.

Until then, the memorial gardens will be open to the public as normal over the Christmas period, and a memorial Christmas tree will be on display in the hall of remembrance. Visitors can write a special message for a loved one on a card and tie it to a branch of the tree.

The grounds of Aldershot Crematorium will be open every day throughout the festive season, from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and from 10am to 4pm at weekends and on bank holidays.