Cabinet approves investment in new electric cremators at Grimsby Crematorium

North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet has approved plans to replace the ageing gas cremators at Grimsby Crematorium with two new electric models, securing the long‑term future of the service while cutting costs and carbon emissions.

The current gas cremators are nearing the end of their operational life, increasing the risk of failure within the next two years. Upgrading to electric cremators avoids service disruption, prevents potential non‑compliance with environmental permits, and removes the need for costly temporary cremators.

Electric cremators are more efficient, cheaper to run and significantly lower in carbon emissions. Once installed, they are expected to deliver around £55,000 in annual operational savings. Installation is planned for Spring 2027 following a 12‑month lead time, with work scheduled to keep the existing cremators operating throughout.

The £4.716m scheme includes a 33% contingency and will be partly funded by £1.5m from the Salix Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. Using this grant reduces the Council’s borrowing requirement and supports its commitment to reach net zero by 2030.

Replacing with gas cremators instead would cost approximately £5.7m, provide no environmental benefits, involve 12 weeks of downtime and require temporary cremators at around £40,000 per week. Gas alternatives would also not qualify for grant funding.

Councillor Henry Hudson, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Net Zero, said the investment ensures a reliable, environmentally responsible service that delivers better value for money while maximising available external funding.

“This is a vital investment in an essential service for our community,”  he said.

“By moving to electric cremators, we are not only ensuring that the crematorium can continue to operate reliably for many years to come, but we are doing so in a way that reduces our carbon footprint and delivers better value for money.

“Making full use of the grant funding available is the right decision for local taxpayers and supports our wider ambition to reach net zero by 2030.”

Due to the specialist nature of the technology, DFW Europe—the only manufacturer able to meet the Council’s specification—will be directly commissioned to supply the equipment. Cabinet has also delegated authority to progress detailed design work, planning, procurement and delivery.