Residents invited to help shape the future of Markeaton Crematorium

28th August, 2026

Residents, visitors, and businesses are being invited to have their say on plans for a new, purpose-build crematorium at Markeaton, which will provide a place of dignity and respect for generations to come. 

Markeaton Crematorium has served the people of Derby since it opened in 1956, supporting residents at an important time in their lives.

Almost 70 years on, the existing building layout and facilities are becoming dated following decades of use. Now, the Council has an opportunity to create a new facility that is designed around the needs of families, staff, and the wider community to make it fit for the future. 

The current proposals include building the new crematorium on neighbouring Council-owned land, next to the current facility. It will be designed to provide a calm, and dignified environment for families, with accessible facilities, spaces for reflection and consideration for different faiths and cultural practices. The memorial-stained glass windows in the existing crematorium, which were funded through donations from members of the public, will also be carefully removed and incorporated into the new development.

The existing crematorium building will be demolished as part of the proposals, but the memorials, gardens and ash scattering areas on the original site will be protected and maintained. A connection between the existing and new sites will also be created, allowing the current grounds to continue as a memorial and ash scattering garden. 

The new crematorium will be designed for future generations, including modern energy-efficient cremators and air filtration systems, alongside measures to support biodiversity and manage water sustainability, creating a facility which is sustainable and meets the needs of Derby for years to come.

The consultation will give residents, stakeholders, and businesses the opportunity to view the proposals and provide feedback on the proposals, including how the new crematorium will look and feel.

The Council will consider the feedback received through the consultation as the plans develop.

The consultation can be viewed on Let’s Talk Derby‍ ‍ until Wednesday 18 November. Residents will also have the opportunity to feedback on the proposals in-person on Saturday 3 October at Derby City Lab from 10am-1pm.