Work to begin on town's new pet crematorium

Work is due to begin on a new pet crematorium, for animals ranging from small birds to large dogs.

Loved and Loyal Pet Crematorium, which would be run by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council when it opens, from a detached, single-storey building within the grounds of Bradwell Crematorium.

It would provide an appointment-only service and include a private farewell room, the authority said.

The new facility was expected to open by the end of the year, they added.

"As a dog owner myself, I know just how quickly our pets become part of the family, and how difficult it can be when the time comes to say goodbye," said council leader Jonathan Gullis.

"We want local people to have the choice of a caring, dignified and affordable way to say goodbye to a much-loved pet, close to home."

The facility made good use of existing facilities and expertise, he added.

"We are a nation of animal lovers and, for millions of people, pets are part of the family," said councillor Ben Simpson, cabinet member for waste, recycling and green spaces.

"Losing one can be incredibly difficult, so we want residents to have somewhere local where they know their pet will be treated with care, dignity and respect."

A regulatory licence from Defra will be needed before the pet crematorium can begin operating.

Construction work would not affect the normal operation of Bradwell Crematorium, the council added.

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