Crematoria firm has plans for new facility in East Lothian

The UK’s largest independent owner of crematoria and cemeteries plans to build a new facility in East Lothian, close to its boundary with Edinburgh.

Westerleigh Group’s West Lothian Crematorium is similar to design of the new facility

Westerleigh Group, which has 34 sites nationwide, including three in Scotland, has submitted a Proposal of Application Notice to East Lothian Council to build a crematorium on land just off the A1.

It will now begin the consultation process by engaging key stakeholders and members of the public, with a view to submitting a formal planning application in due course.

The proposed site is on the opposite side of the carriageway from the Musselburgh Service Area, close to the junction of the A1 with the City of Edinburgh Bypass, at Old Craighall.

The 12-acre site would include a chapel, parking and a landscaped garden of remembrance. It is expected to accommodate an average of five or six services a day.

Roger Mclaughlan, Chief Executive Officer of Westerleigh Group, said: “There is a pressing need for a crematorium in East Lothian; this area already has a large population base which is going to grow further in the coming years, with some significant new housing developments being planned.

“As soon as we confirm those plans, we will let people know how they will be able to take part in the consultation, as it is very important to us that we have a positive relationship with the communities around all our sites.

“We pride ourselves on creating and maintaining crematoria which are attractive places for remembrance and reflection, and which are true assets to their local communities.”

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