Published: Wednesday, 25th November, 2009 9:34am

Crematorium application clears final hurdle

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THE Scottish Government has informed Scottish Borders Council (SBC) that it would not be calling in plans to develop the Borders' first crematorium at the Wairds cemetery in Melrose. The news has been widely welcomed by members of the Council.

SBC's Planning and Building Standards Committee approved the plans at a meeting on November 9 but the decision had to be referred to Scottish Ministers because of an objection by Scottish Natural Heritage.

The Ministers' decision not to call in the application means the crematorium plans now have the full go-ahead.

Council Leader David Parker said: "I am delighted that the Scottish Government has not called in this application and that Ministers are happy that this application should be given approval, in line with the wishes of the Council's Planning and Building Standards Committee - and a great many Borderers.

"This decision demonstrates that our local democratic process is alive and well and I am very pleased that there are now no more impediments to our new crematorium being developed.

"I would like to thank all those members of the public who took the time to formally submit their views concerning the crematorium proposal. Many Borderers made it known that they supported or objected to this development and elected members were very pleased that so many people took the time to register their views. As a Borderer, I cannot think of a better site to end life's journey than in the shadow of the majestic Eildons."

Councillor Carolyn Riddell-Carre, Executive Member for Planning and Environment, said: "This is very good news for the Borders as a crematorium has been badly needed in this area for a number of years. I am confident that the size, scale and design of the building will please everyone - even those who were initially worried about the development.

"It has been very sensitively designed, and with careful siting and landscaping, will allay any fears local people may have had about its location."

Councillor Len Wyse, Executive Member for Environmental Services, said: "This is fantastic news and means that mourners will no longer have to endure journeys to Edinburgh and other cities to say goodbye to their loved-ones. Common sense has prevailed and the democratic process has proved its worth."