In Photos: Revised Application Shows What Malta’s First Crematorium Could Look Like
Applicants for Malta’s first crematorium have re-drawn the plans in line with the new Planning Authority guidelines and renders show what the building and surrounding landscape could look like.
“We are committed to invest in the creation of a state-of-the-art, inclusive and comprehensive facility, catering to all the needs of our islands. We will provide a choice of services, so families can give a dignified farewell to their loved one in their preferred way, with careful consideration and respect to the environment,” Managing Director of Active Group Johann Camilleri said in a statement.
The plans were submitted today in commemoration of the month of remembrance of those who have passed as celebrated in the Catholic faith. However, the company assured that options will be made available to cater to the spiritual needs of all religions and belief systems including Hindu, humanists, atheists and non-believers.
This is the third application submitted by Camilleri in the last eight years and it seeks to develop a building of 500 square metres surrounded by 6,000 square metres of landscaped memorial gardens, “conveying a feeling of peace and tranquility”. The other applications were refused due to a lack of development guidelines which were finally issued in September of this year.
The site of the project is located by the rear entrance of the Addolorata cemetery and across the street of the new cemetery extension, it falls within the accepted area of development set out by the new guidelines and is regarded as the ideal location for development of this project since the area is already committed to cemeterial use.
The crematorium building is designed to blend into the natural surroundings and has been split with a recessed level to keep a streamlined design intended to minimise visual impact from all angles.
Detailed studies and assessments of the project have been carried out together with the company’s experienced foreign consultants, to ensure the project will be able to cater for the demand of the whole country, whilst giving a wide choice of options for people of all religious and ethnic backgrounds. The company is planning to invest in the most advanced cremation and filtration systems, with the lowest possible emissions in conformance with the most stringent European standards and regulations.
“We invite all authorities and councils concerned to reach out to us, share their views, discuss any concerns and help us materialise a project intended to give choice to grieving families and the long-term benefit of our country,” Camilleri said.
The company is hoping the application will be processed in the coming weeks and if accepted, it intends to start development as soon as possible with a view for the facility to be up and running within a couple of years.
Would you choose to be cremated when there is the option?
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