Plans to build Herne Bay’s first crematorium have been given the green light – despite fears mourners cannot travel to the site by bus.

National firm Westerleigh Group first lodged the bid with Canterbury City Council to erect the facility on a 14-acre plot off Bullockstone Road towards the end of last year.

The company says it will cut journey times for grieving families across Herne Bay and Whitstable by at least 25 minutes, as until now, they have had to travel to Barham or Margate for services.

But at Tuesday’s planning committee meeting, Labour councillor Alan Baldock expressed dismay with the scheme, which he labelled “entirely car-centric”.

“I was quite disappointed with this as I believe this site is completely and utterly inaccessible by bus,” the left-winger said.

“This is entirely car-centric. The nearest bus stop is going to be on the corner of Bullockstone Road in Herne, and the other is by the secondary school [Herne Bay High].

“It’ll be completely unwalkable for an elderly resident.

“It would ease the burden for them, who would no doubt have to resort to a taxi, friend or family member, whereas perhaps they’d want their independence.”

City council officer Stevie Andrews said bus, walking and cycling routes are expected to be added to Bullockstone Road, after Kent County Council’s improvement work to the stretch is completed.

The county council says it will begin construction next April.

Westerleigh, which runs 34 sites nationwide, estimates it takes almost an hour for a cortège to travel from Herne Bay to Barham and more than 40 minutes to arrive in Margate.

Bosses also say the scheme will reduce funeral capacity issues currently affecting residents in the Canterbury, Thanet and Dover districts.

A Welch and Sons Funeral Services managing director Tim Welch told members this has meant mourners are having to wait up to four weeks for services.

“To have a crematorium nearer would be a real boon for the residents of Herne Bay,” he added.

“At Barham, it’s very difficult for us to get appointments – our clients are often having to wait three to four weeks to have funerals, which is too long.

“It will mean a lot to our clients, many of whom I’ve spoken to about this and they’ve all been in support and said it’s about time we have a crematorium in this area for us.”

The site will have a 98-seat chapel, waiting room, memorial gardens and an 85-bay car park.

Documents produced by Westerleigh state the building will be the nearest accessible crematorium for about 108,000 people, while being within 30 minutes for 89,000 residents.

Its senior development manager, Ed Aldridge, said: “Every last detail has been considered, which will allow family and friends time to reflect and say their goodbyes in a decent and dignified way.”

“This site will also dramatically reduce the distance families will have to travel, further reducing the stresses associated with the funeral service.”

All but one of the planning committee members voted to approve the proposals.

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