Revamp of Rowley Regis Crematorium moves closer to reality

Plans for the revamp have finally been submitted to Sandwell Council more than a year after the authority's cabinet approved the funds for the scheme.

The revamp will see the chapel extended with more space for mourners, a new waiting room, better parking facilities and a covered area for families to view floral tributes.

The crematorium on Powke Lane opened in 1962 within an existing Chapel of Rest that dated back to 1921.

The building has been modified and extended over the years, with the most recent addition being a glazed porch. The architects state however that this is not in keeping with the building so will be replaced as part of the refurbishment.

As part of the work, a new 47-space car park will be created on Moor Street.

The existing porch will be demolished and replaced with a new flat-roofed canopy on the northern side of the building, and mourners will be able to leave flowers and tributes there for loved ones.

The chapel itself will be turned by 90 degrees to allow it to be extended without destroying the tower and neighbouring graves. New windows will then be installed on the south wall of the chapel and will look out on to a small walled garden, which will have a water feature. The chapel will also have a new waiting room, and office for staff.

A report to planners states: "The appearance of the new extensions to the building will be in keeping with the 1920s architecture, with strong horizontals."

Other work will see the redundant toilet block refurbished as a snack bar or a florist.

Blackheath councillor Robert Price said: "Unfortunately it has taken a little time to get to the planning application stage. But I know the designers and planners wanted to make sure everything was right.

"A crematorium is a very important place, and the work has to be done well and in keeping with what is already there."