Poole Crematorium closes for eco-friendly revamp
A crematorium is to become one of the first in Dorset to be fitted with anti-polluting technology to stop harmful gases including mercury being released.
Poole Crematorium in Gravel Hill will shut for six weeks from 13 September to make it more environmentally friendly.
Ventilated tiles will also be installed to protect a colony of protected bats which live in the roof of the building.
No funeral services will be held for six weeks although the crematorium grounds will remain open.
During the closure, funeral directors will be able to advise on alternative facilities.
Under legislation issued under the Environmental Protection Act, all crematoriums are required by law to install mercury-extracting equipment by 2020, with half to be completed by 2012.
Poole Council said the decision to close the crematorium was made due to the nature of the work, which will involve major reinforcement works and heavy machinery.
Councillor Peter Adams, cabinet portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said: "We will endeavour to have the work completed and this essential service restored as soon as possible."