As an industry leader we are constantly looking for ways to improve our customer service and the impact we have in the communities we serve. Get the latest news on our operations and the initiatives that help us make a difference.

New crematorium and cemetery for Essex

Bentley Crematorium

New crematorium and cemetery for Essex

The construction of Bentley Crematorium and Cemetery opened in May to serve families in Brentwood and the surrounding area. This new facility will offer reduced journey times for local bereaved families as until now the nearest crematoria are in Upminster or Chelmsford, a distance of 11-12 miles away.

Bentley Crematorium is a state-of-the-art development and will become the 35th such facility managed by Dignity. The crematorium buildings have been designed and constructed by Cre8 Building Solutions of Danbury, Essex and a number of local contractors.

The Chapel at Bentley Crematorium will be able to seat over 100 visitors with additional standing space and two large television screens for larger services. The Chapel also has a number of musical options, a loop facility to help those that have difficulty with hearing and facilities for the disabled.

Local funeral directors will also have access to the crematorium's 24-hour booking system that will allow them to provide an improved service to local families.

"We will be offering service times of up to 45 minutes duration whereas most local authority managed crematoria usually provide services of 20 minutes," said crematorium manager, Michelle Hales. "This extended service is part of our commitment to the highest standards of client service and ensures that families have the time they need to pay a respectful farewell to their loved one."

Michelle continued: "Bentley Crematorium and Cemetery will provide the local community with the highest possible standards of service and facilities that are second to none. The grounds of the crematorium and cemetery will continue to be developed so that the visitors have a place of beauty and tranquillity in which to pay their last respects."

An Official Opening Ceremony and an Open Day for members of the public who may have any questions about the crematorium or its facilities is being planned for later this summer.

Other Stories

  • Animal Magic thumbnail Animal Magic

    Sarah Burchill, administrator, together with the staff and manager Vicki Howell of Weston Super Mare Crematorium have been collecting pet food for the RSPCA Bristol Dog and Cats Home Winter Warmer Appeal.

  • Wyre Forest Crematorium wins prestigious award thumbnail Wyre Forest Crematorium wins prestigious award

    Wyre Forest Crematorium, Dignity's facility in Worcestershire has won an award from the Royal Institute of British Architects. The Crematorium was named as one of the 75 buildings across the UK to pick up a regional winner award for 2012.

  • New crematorium and cemetery for Essex thumbnail New crematorium and cemetery for Essex

    The construction of Bentley Crematorium and Cemetery opened in May to serve families in Brentwood and the surrounding area.

  • Crematorium manager retires after 40 years service thumbnail Crematorium manager retires after 40 years service

    In March 2012, Lesley Hornsby, the manager of Heart of England Crematorium in Nuneaton retired after 40 years service to local bereaved families.

  • Shirley's marathon success thumbnail Shirley's marathon success

    Shirley Roberts, crematoria business development manager for memorial sales finished the London Marathon in 4 hours, 48 minutes. Shirley was running for Cancer Research UK and raised £3,600.

  • Dignity Easter Egg Challenge thumbnail Dignity Easter Egg Challenge

    Youngsters at Honeylands Children's Centre in Exeter, a facility for children with complex special needs, were the beneficiaries of the Exeter & Devon Crematorium's first ever participation in the .