The sustainable Havant crematorium that is helping the local environment
As well as providing tranquil, natural surroundings, the whole development is also specifically designed to protect and enhance the local environment.
The building is highly sustainable and the grounds take in ancient woodland, designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
Sustainability was an important consideration in creating and establishing The Oaks Crematorium back in 2013.
The grounds include a natural pond and a wildflower meadow with active beehives and bird boxes, as well as hedgehog houses.
This has encouraged 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.
The Oaks Crematorium is owned and operated by Southern Co-op - the independent co-operative formed in Portsmouth nearly 150 years ago.
Gemma Lacey, Southern Co-op’s director of sustainability and communications, said: ‘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.’
Southern Co-op has worked 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. Surveys have shown that the overall biodiversity of the site has increased.’
The crematorium 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 there is a sustainable heating and cooling system.
Gemma explained: ‘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 installed solar panels to help reduce electricity consumption and our carbon footprint.’
The site has proved popular with clients, visitors and members alike.
Gemma said: ‘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.’