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| Once redeveloped, the lodge and its extension could accommodate up to 40 customers |
THE redundant crematorium lodge in Grimsby could be converted later this year to a café-tearoom.
The proposal was earlier this month submitted to North East Lincolnshire Council planners for their consideration.
In the absence of any other such facilities, the main purpose would be to serve visitors and mourners either before or after funeral services.
Also part of the scheme is redevelopment of the first floor of the building on Weelsby Road to provide multi-functional space for community meetings and other events.
Two extensions would also be built - one of two storeys to the side and the other of a single storey to the rear.
In total, up to 40 customers could be served.
A statement supporting the application reads: "The existing lodge is comprised of a two storey brick built building fronting on to the entrance to the crematorium.
"Historically the building would have been used as a gatehouse and accommodation for the groundskeeper who tended the extensive landscaping surrounding the crematorium.
"The role of the groundskeeper in a modern context is undertaken by a team of grounds maintenance staff who are employed by the local authority on a regular 9-5 working week. "
The statement continues: "The most recent use of the lodge was as office accommodation for a local mental health charity who vacated the building in 2016. The building has been empty since."
"Built in 1954, the lodge in isolation is square and devoid of character and has limited architectural merit.
"This appearance is not aided by the parapet wall detail to all four facades which conceals the hipped roof arrangement and the previous insertion of unsightly white plastic windows.
"The building does not have the requisite significance to be considered for national or local listing.
"The lodge has a few attractive architectural features such as the recessed brick surround detail to the windows, tiled external sills, header brick details to the top and bottom of the front facade and stacked tile details to the lower and upper corners of the front façade.
"Some of these details will be adopted in a contemporary manner within areas of the new construction to provide a linking element between old and new.
"The location is not particularly desirable or marketable to external tenants which is why the building has been empty for a number of years.
"The initial preference for the site was to demolish the building in its entirety to provide a modern building which would facilitate the proposed new use as a commercial venue.
"This was considered in early design reviews but it was decided that, as well as being less costly, it was a more responsible and sustainable move to retain it, thereby creating less construction waste and using less energy in demolition and construction."
It is hoped the provision of this new facility will potentially prevent funeral attendees from congregating in front of the crematorium buildings after a funeral when another funeral procession is imminent.
The statement goes on : "This is an ongoing problem for the team who run the facility and currently requires handling with tact and sensitivity.
"The tearooms will provide a welcoming space where individuals can move away from the main building and spend unmeasured and unpressured time connecting with fellow mourners or quietly reflecting upon the lives of lost loved ones.
"This provides a ‘step-down’ facility following a funeral event rather than requiring attendees to briskly move to their vehicles in order to go home or attend a wake in another location (the building can provide wake hospitality on request).
"In addition to those associated with funerals, local dog owners, who regularly and in some numbers walk in the peaceful crematorium grounds, are also welcome to call in for drinks, snacks or light meals.
"The site is surrounded by mature poplar trees and established privet hedges.
"These will be retained where possible and the gardens generally improved in order to make it an attractive space for outdoor eating and drinking in the summer and for viewing from the internal café space in poorer weather.
"The desire is to create a green, desirable and peaceful environment enhanced by the surrounding trees, hedges and planting."
It is thought the application will be determined by a senior case officer under delegated powers without the need for consideration by NELC's planning committee.
The Grimsby News says: Is there no holding NELC back in its attempts to commercialise Grimsby Crematorium? Earlier this winter, it revealed plans to introduce funeral services for hamsters, budgies, dogs, cats and other pets. Now it wants to install a cafeteria and events room within the disused building which stands at the exit of the cemetery as mourners return to their cars. The project may make financial sense, but it surely carries with it more than a hint of tackiness. A crematorium is a place for serenity and quiet reflection, not for eating and drinking. Here's hoping that whoever runs the new facility does not apply for a licence to serve alcohol.
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