Poole Crematorium is to be closed from 14 March for 22 weeks with services resuming from the first week of September to enable substantial works to take place.

There will be improvements to the ceremony room and cloisters, the construction of a new, covered external waiting area, plus renovation of the reception and waiting room, including the toilet facilities. The work will also see the introduction of a wildlife-inspired mural by a local artist.

Other improvements include the creation of a new Book of Remembrance private viewing room and a new outside floral wreath court alongside improvements to the lighting in the car park.

These enhancements form part of the BCP Bereavement Care ‘Phase 1’ business plan approved by cabinet.

Although no funeral services will take place during the temporary closure of Poole Crematorium, residents are welcome to continue to visit the grounds; the Woodland Glades and the Old and New Lawn areas remain open.

Witnessed ashes strewing services in the grounds will also continue by appointment. Bereavement staff will be present on site daily for limited periods to oversee care of these outdoor facilities.

Poole Crematorium’s Books of Remembrance have been temporarily relocated to secure and discreet rooms at Bournemouth Crematorium where they can be viewed by residents. They can also be viewed online from home or via their local library.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for Environment and Place, BCP Council, said: “The experience of many bereaved people throughout the pandemic has shown just how important the right time and space needed to grieve is, so these vital refurbishments at Poole Crematorium will make a real difference to residents in their times of grief. I am pleased that the grounds remain open and the works are about to begin.”