GREEN Party councillors have backed a bid to install electric cremators at Astwood Crematorium as part of a £6million refurbishment of the site.
Detailed designs for the modernisation and refurbishment of Astwood Crematorium are to be drawn up, after councillors back the proposed revamp in July.
An initial study carried out earlier this year has ruled out the possibilities of building a new crematorium elsewhere and it is instead the current site will be upgraded and extended.
Part of the scheme will be the replacement of its three current gas-fired cremators, which are reaching the end of their life, with the benefits of electric cremators highlighted within the report presented to councillors last month.
According to party chiefs, implementing electric cremators at Astwood would help Worcester become carbon neutral by 2030, as electric cremators produce up to 80 per cent less carbon than gas cremators when combined with green energy tariffs and selective catalytic reduction.
In 2021/22, Astwood accounted for 18 per cent of Worcester Council’s total emissions. By installing more efficient electric cremators, the crematorium would greatly improve Worcester’s air quality.
Electric cremators are also larger than those currently installed and would make it easier for the cremation of larger people. This would enable a greater number of Worcester residents to utilise the services provided at Astwood.
The crematorium is expected to continue providing its service throughout the installation process, allowing residents to rely on it throughout the refurbishment.
Speaking in support of the plans, Coun Hannah Cooper said: “Electric cremators are a rational way to lower the operating costs and energy security of Worcester City Council.
“It also represents another step in improving Worcester’s air quality.”
