Mendip Crematorium is poised for a significant expansion of its parking facilities following planning approval from Somerset Council.

The crematorium has been grappling with parking challenges that have seen visitors resort to parking in undesignated areas and along Old Wells Road, leading to disruption and safety concerns.

The approved application outlines an ambitious plan to add 51 new parking bays to the existing 69, bringing the total to 120.

This expansion includes an increase in disabled parking bays, the introduction of two electric vehicle charging stations, and additional standard parking bays, alongside the introduction of four cycle parking spots equipped with Sheffield Stands.

A lack of parking spaces at Mendip Crematorium has been making things difficult for mourners

The new parking provisions are designed to enhance accessibility and efficiency for both visitors to the memorial garden and those attending funeral services.

The parking extension will be distributed across three key areas within the crematorium's grounds, with careful consideration given to access, layout, and minimal disruption to the site's landscaping, wildlife, and the surrounding environment. Improvements include better lighting within the parking areas to enhance safety and visibility, with low-impact LED units installed to ensure minimal environmental impact.

Mourners parked along Old Wells Road

This development aims to alleviate the parking chaos experienced during busy periods, particularly for mourners who have found the lack of suitable parking distressing. The strategic placement of the new parking areas promises to significantly reduce the impact on Old Wells Road traffic and improve pedestrian safety, offering a more serene and respectful environment for visitors to remember their loved ones.

The Mendip Crematorium's Memorial Gardens of Remembrance, known for their tranquil beauty, will continue to offer a peaceful setting for reflection and remembrance, open every day of the year.