Residents unite to oppose multi-million pound crematorium near Daviot, Aberdeenshire.
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In a significant victory for local residents, plans for a multi-million pound crematorium near Daviot have been officially rejected following months of heated debate and community resistance. The proposal, submitted by Fraser Milne, owner of Inverurie Garden Centre, was met with overwhelming opposition from the local populace, culminating in 84 formal objections submitted to Aberdeenshire Council.
Community concerns and objections
The proposed crematorium was to be situated adjacent to the Stewart Trailers manufacturing site, raising immediate concerns among residents about potential noise and environmental impacts. The design included a central chapel with a capacity for 144 mourners, a garden of remembrance, and a reflective pool, aimed at providing a serene environment for grieving families.
However, the proximity to an industrial site led many to question the suitability of the location.
During the planning meetings, opinions were sharply divided. While the Formartine area committee expressed strong opposition, their counterparts in Garioch were in favor of the development, highlighting the growing demand for cremation services in the region. Lesley Tierney, planning director for Kellas, argued that the facility was essential due to an aging population and a projected 16% increase in the death rate over the next decade.
Arguments for and against the proposal
Proponents of the crematorium emphasized the need for additional facilities to meet the rising demand, claiming that the existing crematoriums in Aberdeenshire were insufficient. Tierney defended the project, asserting that it would not contribute to additional pollution and that noise concerns from the nearby manufacturing operations would not be adversely affected.
However, opponents, including representatives from Stewart Trailers, raised significant concerns regarding noise pollution. The manufacturing process at Stewart Trailers involves heavy machinery and welding, which could disrupt the solemn atmosphere required for a crematorium. The solicitor for Stewart Trailers, Elaine Farquharson-Black, presented evidence from a noise assessment indicating that sound levels in the proposed remembrance garden could be significantly higher than those suggested by the applicants.
The final decision and implications
Despite the arguments presented by both sides, the infrastructure services committee ultimately voted against the proposal, with a decisive 10 to 4 outcome. Councillor Derek Ritchie articulated the community’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for a peaceful environment for mourning families and the unsuitability of the proposed location due to its proximity to an industrial site.
This decision reflects the power of community engagement in local governance and highlights the complexities involved in balancing development needs with the concerns of residents. As Aberdeenshire continues to grow, the challenge of providing adequate facilities while respecting community values will remain a critical issue for local authorities.
