Construction milestone reached at Bradford’s new crematorium

A special steel signing ceremony was held with key principals from Bradford Council, NIRAS Architects and Robertson to mark the completion of the steel frame as the multi-million-pound project continues to progress. 

The new-build crematorium will cater for services of all religions and a range of service sizes, featuring two halls, a small hall for intimate services and a large hall for services up to 300 people. A car park, state-of-the-art cremators, office space, a waiting room and covered gathering areas also make up the project.

The development is part of Bradford Council’s Bereavement Services Strategy, which aims to modernise and upgrade the district’s crematoria and provide new burial space. It is the third crematorium project, following the refurbishment of Oakworth Crematorium and the delivery of the new crematorium at Shay Grange by Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, which opened in October 2023. 

Jonathan Sizer, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, said: “Work is progressing well as we mark a major milestone in the construction programme. Having worked with Bradford Council on Shay Grange Crematorium, we understand the importance of delivering a modern, high-quality facility that offers an inclusive and dignified environment for such important and personal services.”

Cllr Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said: “This is an important milestone, and I’m really pleased to see the new crematorium taking shape.  This work is another step in our strategy to create a modern, sustainable and environment-friendly bereavement service for the people of the district.

“It is a significant investment in future bereavement services operated by the local authority.

“We need to carry out these works due to the age of the existing facilities which are working well beyond their recommended life span, and which do not conform to modern environmental standards.

 “We want to provide practical, sympathetic, convenient and pleasant surroundings for people when they pay their last respects to their loved ones.”