The new crematorium, named Maldon Fields, is set to open this Winter, with first funerals to be held in December.

Major works at the crematorium are complete, with decoration of the chapel now underway.

Maldon Fields, accessible from Maldon Road/ the A414, expects to deliver around three or four funerals each day.

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

Richard Evans, Managing Director of Maldon Fields, feels the new crematorium will help provide a more personal and private service to families:  'I am sure that the extra time and the tranquil setting will result in families feeling more assured about funeral services. 

"This crematorium will be much quieter, providing space and time for people to gather together to mourn someone they have loved and hold a dignified, personal event."

Philip Pennack, of T Pennack and Sons, Chelmsford's longest running firm of funeral directors has welcomed Maldon Fields' arrival suggesting it's "time for a new choice": "From what I have seen, it will be in a quiet and beautiful setting. 

"I am sure that bereaved families will draw some comfort from the surrounding countryside and views across to the waters of Maldon."



An artist's impression of the finished crematorium. (Credit: LHS Designs)

Olivia Rudgley, manager of AG Smith & Bakers Funeral Service in Maldon, another long established firm, agrees that the new service will restore the traditional service as a more suitable choice again: "We have seen bereaved families choosing a direct or unattended service at the crematorium because they have been put off by the long journeys and how busy these places have become.

"I am sure that a new crematorium will allow something which is more personal and in a beautiful, quiet spot. The funeral service is an essential part of the grieving process in my view."

While Maldon Fields will provide the choice of direct cremation, Maldon Fields aims to reverse the growing trend of cut-price, impersonal cremation. 

Construction on the new crematorium began in January this year, three years after plans were first submitted to Maldon District Council Planning. 

Results of a survey carried out by Elegy in 2021 indicated that over nine out of ten residents believe there is a need for a new crematorium to serve the district.