Maldon Fields opens next week with the seal of approval from the Bishop of Bradwell.

As developers put the final touches to the newly built Maldon Fields crematorium, the new facility received the seal of approval on Tuesday from the Venerable Adam Atkinson.

Representing the Diocese of Chelmsford, the Bishop had an early tour of Maldon Fields along with Reverend Peter Begley from St Leonard's Church, Southminster. 

The Bishop said: "We were delighted to visit the new crematorium on the verge of holding its first funerals and can see how much care and effort has been taken with the bereaved in mind. I am sure it will make a meaningful difference with families allowed more time and space for a meaningful service."

Work to finish the new crematorium, which will serve the Maldon District and surrounding areas, is due to finish on schedule with its first funerals booked from December 4. 

The crematorium will relieve pressure on Chelmsford, Colchester and Basildon crematoria and offer more time for families to hold a service. 

 Crematorium managers expect three or four funerals to be held at Maldon Fields each day.

The real change in the past couple of weeks has been the emergence of the landscaping around the building with over two articulated lorries of trees, hedging and plants put in place.

Over 3000 m2 of local turf has also been laid to ensure that the setting is right for those initial funerals.

Crematorium developer Elegy's Richard Evans said: "We owe a great debt to our building contractors Moor Manage, who have worked tirelessly to complete this project on time despite all of the usual challenges, including weather at this time of year.

"Many of the trades are local contractors who have taken a real pride in being part of this project. Their hard work has paid off, and we are able to hold our first funerals in the first week of December."

Local family funeral director Paul King has organised a number of the early funerals. He commented: "It's a great relief that families are now able to choose the new crematorium so they can avoid the long journey to Chelmsford.

"The hourly services makes a big difference too and the setting, even at this early stage, is wonderful."