Families waiting weeks for cremations

Ongoing issues at Rochdale Crematorium means families are being forced to wait weeks to cremate their loved ones.

The waiting list at the crematorium has grown so long because the average number of cremations per day has been reduced.

Speaking about the issue at a meeting of Rochdale Council on Wednesday (21 January), Councillor Ashley Dearnley said: “It is a problem that has been ongoing for a few years and it is getting worse. I recently found out that the crematorium has gone from eight funerals a day to five. This is an issue that needs looking at.”

Councillor Jane Gartside said: “Two months ago, there was an issue with the smoke. The building that has been renovated looks lovely but I do think there are issues and they need looking at.”

Councillor Jacqui Beswick added: “I agree that this is a serious concern that needs resolving. People need somewhere to go and if we can’t accommodate them, then they will go elsewhere and that is losing us money.”

It is understood that some of the issues are due to the refurbishment work that started in the crematorium some time ago that have not yet been finished.

Mark Widdup, Director of Economy and Environment at Rochdale Council, said: “Work to replace equipment in Rochdale crematorium meant we had to restrict the number of cremations from eight to five per day. We worked hard to minimise disruption - closing only on the three statutory holidays over Christmas and arranging additional service times at Middleton crematorium.

“Normal service has now been resumed and waiting times will reduce.”