Planning changes approved for Lee-on-the-Solent crematorium
Changes to plans for a new crematorium have been approved following objections being raised.
The London Crematorium Company won approval to make minor amendments to the scheme at a 6.5-acre site north of Brune Lane and east of Broom Way, in Lee-on-the-Solent.
The visitor entrance and staff areas are to be increased to accommodate more mourners, while the size of the crematory equipment room will be reduced.
Planning permission had been granted in July 2023 to a different crematorium company. The new owner recently applied to make changes, opening the plans up to public comments.
Horse owners complained that the proposed removal of a lay-by would cause problems.
The lay-by, on the corner of Brune Lane with Broom Way, is used by horse owners to take hay and water into the fields next to where the crematorium will be built.
Following the concerns being raised, the applicant agreed to keep the lay-by.
Councillor Ian Bastable (Con, Park Gate) said it was a “shame” the lay-by would stay, as it was originally removed for the “betterment of the countryside”.
Residents currently use the Portchester Crematorium or the crematoriums of Wessex Vale and The Oaks at Havant, which are further away.
One person who supported the plans said: “Fully in support of this application; a new crematorium is needed and will be an asset for the community; yes there will be an increase in traffic, but only at certain times of the day.
The garden of rest appears a tranquil environment for reflection and the building itself is perfect for this setting.
Adding that for anyone who has recently lost a loved one, trying to find the right place to say goodbye is so important and this application appears to be the right thing for all.”
The new plans for application reference P/25/0783/VC were approved unanimously by the planning committee.