COUNCILLORS are set to finally decide plans for Thurrock's first crematorium after the decision was delayed earlier this year.

On Tuesday, 14 April Thurrock Council's planning committee is due to consider the long awaited application at its meeting on Tuesday, after members postponed a debate on the scheme in February.

The proposal relates to land next to Snakes Spinney and New Covert, off Brentwood Road (A128) in Orsett.

The development, submitted by Elegy Limited, is a full planning application for a single storey crematorium building with memorial gardens, landscaped grounds and associated infrastructure, including a new access from the A128.

A cycle and pedestrian route would also be provided to the north of the site.

Planning officers have recommended approval, concluding the scheme complies with the development plan and represents sustainable development.

While the site sits within the Green Belt, officers say around 87 per cent of the land would remain open space and that any harm to openness would be limited.

If approved, the crematorium could host up to 1,200 services each year, serving a population of more than 120,000 residents living within a 30 minute drive.

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Thurrock currently has no crematorium of its own, meaning families must travel to Upminster, Brentwood or Basildon for services.

The proposed building would be located near the centre of the site and set back from the road.

It would include a wooden clad chapel, waiting room, lobby, offices, family areas and cremator rooms, along with a separate floral tribute building. The main structure would stand 10.8 metres high, with a 1.4 metre flue.

Modern crematoria do not require tall chimneys, officers noted.

Parking for 74 vehicles is planned, including disabled bays, electric vehicle charging points and separate staff parking.

The scheme also proposes biodiversity net gain and a net zero carbon operation once construction is complete.

Twenty six public comments were received during consultation, with 23 supporting the application and three raising objections. Supporters cited the need for a local crematorium, convenience for bereaved families, job creation and reduced travel outside the ULEZ zone.

Objectors raised concerns including highway safety on the A128, the impact of the cycleway, sewerage capacity, design issues and the effect on nearby residents.

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Officers said the public benefits — including four full time jobs and reduced pressure on nearby crematoria operating near peak capacity — carried significant weight in favour of approval.