New Build Crematorium, York
- Client: Crematoria Management Ltd (Westerleigh Group)
- Location: Sand Hutton, York
- Project Type: New Build Crematorium – Design & Build
- Tender Type: Competitive Tender
- Project Value: £3.6 million
Project Description
We were appointed by Crematoria Management Ltd (Westerleigh Group) to deliver this new-build crematorium in Sand Hutton, York. The project involved the complete construction of a modern, purpose-built facility, including the main ceremony spaces, crematory areas, public reception, staff areas and all associated external works, landscaping, access roads and services infrastructure. The design centred on creating a dignified, peaceful environment for families while ensuring the operational efficiency required for a contemporary crematorium.
The Client Requirements
- Provides a high-quality ceremonial environment
- Respects the surrounding rural landscape
- Offers efficient, discreet operational spaces
- Meets strict regulatory and environmental standards
- Supports safe visitor movement and accessibility
The Challenges
- Integrating specialist cremator equipment and complex M&E systems
- Managing sensitive works in a tranquil rural setting
- Ensuring strict compliance with CDM 2015 and industry H&S standards
- Delivering robust traffic management, security and site logistics during construction
- Coordinating multiple stakeholders, including designers, the principal designer, and specialist subcontractors
Collaborative Design & Build Delivery
Working closely with Westerleigh and the design team, we developed a coordinated solution aligning with the operator's national standards while being uniquely tailored to the Sand Hutton site.
Strong Project Management
The Construction Phase Plan set out clear roles, responsibilities and communication lines, including management structure, workforce consultation, daily coordination meetings, robust procedures for handling design information, site rules, inductions, security and welfare management.
Effective Risk Management
The project incorporated well-structured controls for traffic routes and segregation, material deliveries, excavations, working at height, hazardous materials storage, and noise, dust and vibration control. These measures enabled efficient operation on a rural site while minimising environmental and community impact.
Quality Construction
Key achievements include delivering a high-quality architectural finish using natural materials, integrating specialist cremator plant and environmental controls, establishing landscaped gardens, and installing energy-efficient, compliant M&E systems.
Outcome
The completed North Yorkshire Crematorium provides a calm, modern and respectful facility, enhancing local bereavement services for the community. The project demonstrates our ability to deliver specialist buildings with complex technical requirements while maintaining the sensitivity and quality expected for a facility of this nature.
