A LONG‑awaited crematorium for Thurrock looks set to become a reality after plans for a new facility near Orsett were recommended for approval.

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

Planning officers say the scheme, put forward by Elegy Ltd, meets the necessary requirements and is acceptable in principle.

The proposal, reported on by Thurrock Nub News after a public consultation in September last year, covers land next to Snakes Spinney and New Covert, off Brentwood Road (A128). It includes a single‑storey crematorium building, landscaped memorial grounds, new access from the A128, a cycleway from the north, and sustainable drainage and ecological enhancements. Around 87 per cent of the site will remain open space.

If approved, the crematorium is expected to host up to 1,200 services a year, easing pressure on nearby facilities and reducing journey times for bereaved families.

Planning officers say the site — designated as green belt — would experience only "limited" harm to openness and that the benefits clearly outweigh concerns. The land is considered "Grey Belt", meaning it is already partly developed or degraded, strengthening the case for approval.

The main building would feature a wooden‑clad chapel, waiting room, lobby, offices, cremator room and a separate floral tribute area. Modern crematoria do not require tall chimney stacks, and the proposed structure would stand 10.8 metres high, with a 1.4‑metre flue above it.

Parking for 74 vehicles is planned, including two EV charging bays and spaces for staff.

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The application has undergone a broad consultation, with leaflets delivered to residents in Orsett and Horndon‑on‑the‑Hill, a public exhibition at Orsett Hall attended by about 50 people, and online feedback via the developer's website. Of the ten formal submissions received, seven supported the plan and three objected.

Supporters highlighted the need for a local facility, job creation and reduced travel — particularly avoiding the London ULEZ zone. One Grays resident wrote: "Thurrock needs a crematorium. It will create new jobs and be more accessible for local people."

However, objections raised concerns about highway safety on the A128, privacy issues linked to the new cycle track, sewerage capacity, and fears over the psychological impact of living near a crematorium. The operator of Basildon Crematorium also lodged a detailed objection, disputing the applicant's assessment of regional need.

Despite this, planning officers have recommended the scheme be approved, subject to conditions and the scheme will go before councillors on Tuesday, 10 February.