WARRINGTON Borough Council has responded to call for an expansion of Walton Lea Crematorium.

The venue in south Warrington, within the walls of Lord Daresbury’s old estate, is visited by many people daily to pay respects to loved ones.

One resident questioned whether it is fit for purpose anymore due to its size, with mourners left standing outside in the rain.

They said: “After another visit to Walton Lea Crematorium, where people are stood outside in bad weather and cannot get in, is it not about time it was made much bigger and fit for purpose?

“It was a very emotional day for everyone and people go to pay their respects.

“I think Warrington Borough Council needs to look at this with immediate effect.”

In response, a council spokesman said: “We continue to invest in Walton Lea Crematorium and have made significant renovations to the chapel area over previous years.

“We are able to accommodate up to 80 people in the chapel and a further 30 people in the foyer area, and guests are made aware of this at the point of booking.

“Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to extend the size of the chapel, however there are a number of options for those looking to hold a larger event in memory of their loved one.

“Within the crematorium, we can arrange a second time slot which allows for more people to pay their respects, with a large foyer area outside the crematorium to lay flowers and gather together after each ceremony.

“We will also be fitting screens in the foyer shortly, and have fitted speakers both in the foyer and outside under the canopy to enable all mourners to hear the service and see the images being displayed.

“For larger services, Walton Hall is also available, with a full service and refreshments available in the hall, which can be followed by a direct cremation at Walton Lea Crematorium.”