BURGER AND CHIPS, ANYONE? CONSENT GRANTED FOR MOURNERS' CAFE AT TOWN CREMATORIUM

                                                                      

Once redeveloped, the lodge and its extension could accommodate up to 40  customers

THE redundant crematorium lodge in Grimsby is set to be be converted to a café.

The proposal by Engie has been approved by North East Lincolnshire Council planners.

The initiative is the latest aimed at generating extra revenue for  the crematorium - putting it on a more commercial footing.

Also part of the scheme is redevelopment of the first floor of the building to provide a multi-functional space for community meetings and other events - who knows, perhaps even zumba classes.

There will also be a new two-storey extension.

Subject to no coronavirus restrictions, up to 40 customers could be accommodated in the eaterie at a time.

For hungry mourners waiting for a funeral, there will perhaps be a chance to nip into the cafe to buy a packet of crisps to munch while queuing. (Salt-and-vinegar or cheese-and-onion, you choose.)

According to the officer who determined the application, the proposal will "not be out of character" with its peaceful surroundings.

It is not yet known what name will be given to the cafe or if some celebrity such as Tony Blackburn or Kylie Minogue will be invited to cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony.

The Grimsby News says: For quiet serenity and the scent of flowers, read clattering cutlery and fragrance of fry-up. Whatever next? A popcorn-selling kiosk within the crematorium? Choc-ice intervals midway through funeral services? A beer garden behind the new cafe? A slippery slope surely beckons. North East Lincolnshire should put an immediate block on this ill-considered and thoroughly insensitive proposal which is certain to cause distress to grieving families. Commercialisation may have its place - but not in the grounds of a crematorium and cemetery. 

See also:

https://bit.ly/3isYHaf

and

https://bit.ly/3gqFTqp