A COUNCILLOR has praised a “well thought-out” scheme for a new crematorium in the Test Valley after plans went on public display.

Developers Westleigh Group, which wants to build the new facility at Ridge Lane, near Romsey, unveiled the project at an open exhibition in Crosfield Hall this week.

Those behind the plans say the crematorium would be available to Romsey residents, as well as eastern parts of the New Forest and central and southern areas of the Test Valley.

Romsey Town councillor John Parker said that because the site is on designated countryside, developers would have to prove to planners that this location is essential and justifiable.

He said: “It was a good exhibition and I think it’s something Romsey needs.

“The impression I got was that it was going to be well-received but it’s early days yet and there’s no planning application.

“There’s not a great deal of detail and I certainly asked some questions about things which weren’t immediately obvious, like whether the plans extend to a woodland burial area, which I know is popular with some people.

“It seems to be a well thought-out scheme in a place where it’s not going to create many problems.”

Daily Echo:

MD of Westerleigh Group, Richard Evans, left, and resident John Parker at the public consultation for a proposed crematorium.

The proposed site at Ridge Lane, off the A3090 between Romsey and Ower, was formerly a gravel pit and plans include building a 77-car car park.

An environment assessment has been been carried out of the site and the company has built thirteen crematoriums across Britain and operates a further 20 around the UK.

Bosses at Westerleigh say the proposed crematorium would be set in woodland and well screened from roads in the area.

A Westerleigh spokesman told the Romsey Advertiser that a formal planning application would almost certainly be submitted by the end of the year.

The spokesman said: “The exhibition was a very successful event and we were pleased with how our plans were received.

“About 50 people attended and there was strong support, in particular for a local crematorium. Residents mentioned the bad journey to Southampton, so the idea of a new one locally was well regarded.”

“Questions were raised about the environmental impact and we had to explain how modern crematoriums are fitted with sophisticated equipment.”