How a Havant crematorium is helping the local environment and wildlife to thrive
It was to be a site that provided families with a meaningful and personalised service, but which was designed and developed in a way that protected and enhanced the environment.
Nearly seven years on and the environmental developments have been hailed a huge success.
The Oaks Crematorium is owned and operated by Southern Co-op - the independent co-operative formed in Portsmouth nearly 150 years ago.
The crematorium’s design and setting continue to be quite unique as the building is highly sustainable and the grounds take in ancient semi-natural woodland, designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) which also surrounds the site.
Gemma Lacey, Southern Co-op’s director of sustainability and communications, said: ‘My role when I came into the business was to develop a clear strategy for sustainability to underpin everything we do. Southern Co-op has always had a purpose beyond profit, working for the benefit of our communities and the environment. This is important to our members and a core part of our co-operative difference.’
Sustainability was naturally an important consideration in creating and establishing The Oaks Crematorium. The grounds include a natural pond and a wildflower meadow with active beehives and bird boxes as well as hedgehog houses; encouraging local wildlife to thrive.
Surveys have shown that there are now more than 100 different botanical species and that the meadow provides an excellent habitat for insects like bees, grasshoppers and butterflies as well as cover and foraging opportunities for small mammals.
Since it opened, Southern Co-op has been working with The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to ensure that The Oaks Crematorium makes a positive difference to the local environment and wildlife.
This has involved sensitively clearing and enhancing the pond area with the planting of native woodland flowers and marginal pond species like flag iris.
Gemma added: ‘They helped us to understand what flora and fauna was there and helped create an action plan to enhance the habitats on site so we can encourage more wildlife.
‘The surveys have shown that the overall biodiversity of the site has increased. The building has also been built to the highest environmental standards and is designed to be as energy-efficient as possible.
‘Low-level energy-efficient lighting minimises light pollution and we worked hard to deliver a sustainable heating and cooling solution for the building.
‘The main chapel uses passive ventilation, where cool fresh air is naturally drawn in at low level on the eastern side of the building (pre-warmed during the cooler months) and expelled at high level on the western side. We’ve also recently installed solar panels to help reduce electricity consumption and our carbon footprint.’
Gemma said that the site has proved popular with clients, visitors and members alike.
‘It provides a very different experience to many other crematoria. People enjoy being able to spend time in a peaceful setting that’s very tranquil and natural.
‘The environment adds to the overall experience and it is a beautiful place to spend time at peace and remember loved ones.’