THE grounds at Walton Lea Crematorium have now re-opened to visitors, following an amendment to the government’s COVID-19 regulations.
Warrington Borough Council temporarily closed the site to visitors, except for those attending funerals, earlier this month, in light of government legislation, specifying the closure of all crematoriums to the public.
However, this legislation, based on restriction of movement, has now been adjusted, and visiting a burial ground or garden of remembrance, to pay respects to a member of the person’s household, a family member or friend are now seen as acceptable reasons to leave one’s home.
Following this amendment, the council has moved to re-open the crematorium, with public access to the grounds now once more permitted.
Warrington Borough Council’s cabinet member for environment and public protection, Cllr Judith Guthrie, said: “We recognise the impact that the restricted access to Walton Lea Crematorium has had on local people. However, the decision was made in-line with national COVID-19 regulations.
“Following these amendments from the government, I’m pleased that we are able to re-open the crematorium so that local families can once more visit the graves of their loved ones during this difficult time.”
All those who attend the crematorium are expected to observe social distancing of at least two metres away from other people who are from a different household.
For the latest information on coronavirus in Warrington, please visit warrington.gov.uk/coronavirus
