Design unveiled for new crematorium

The proposed design for a new crematorium in Derby has been published.

Derby City Council has detailed its plans to rebuild the Markeaton Crematorium on land next to its current site, before demolishing the existing building.

The current building dates back to 1956, but the council said the building layout and facilities are "becoming dated following decades of use".

The authority is now asking resident and businesses to comment on the designs, including how the new crematorium will "look and feel".

According to the council, the current proposals would see a new crematorium built on council-owned land next to the current facility.

They said the new space will include accessible facilities, spaces for reflection and consideration for different faiths and cultural practices.

The memorial-stained glass windows in the existing crematorium, which were funded through donations from members of the public, would also be removed and incorporated into the new development.

The existing crematorium building will be demolished as part of the proposals, but the memorials, gardens and ash scattering areas on the original land will be maintained as part of the new site.

In October 2025, Derby City Council's cabinet approved proposals to allocate £889,501 for the design of the new building.

Ndukwe Onuoha, cabinet member for streetpride, parks and leisure, said: "Markeaton Crematorium has served Derby for almost 70 years, supporting countless families through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

"We now have an opportunity to create a new facility that will continue the important work for generations to come.

"We want residents to take a look at the proposals and tell us what they think to ensure that the new crematorium is a place that reflects the needs of our city."

The consultation is open for 12 weeks and will close at midnight on 18 November.

Listen to BBC Radio Derby on Sounds and follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.