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Former Dundee University rector says lifting ban on crematoriums operating near homes would be ‘atrocious’

Former Dundee University rector Craig Murray.
Former Dundee University rector Craig Murray.

A ban on crematoriums operating next to homes is to be lifted, paving the way for communities to be blighted by the smell of burning human flesh.

That is the grim prospect for residents across Scotland when Holyrood passes the Burial and Crematorium Bill on Tuesday, says the former rector of Dundee University Craig Murray.

Mr Murray also attacked the situation where businesses were converting buildings into crematoriums near to homes in anticipation of the new legislation coming into force.

As it stands, the law forbids building new crematoriums within 200 yards of existing homes.

That is removed from the new bill, which is expected to be passed, in favour of decisions on distances being left with individual councils under planning laws.

Writing in his blog, Mr Murray, a former diplomat, said: “The Government will reply that modern technology makes crematoria emissions safe and clean. I do not care.

“It is an activity which ought to be secluded, for the dignity of both mourners and local residents. People do not want particles of someone else entering their homes and nostrils, no matter how microscopic or sterile. The Scottish Government’s behaviour in this matter is atrocious.”

Concerns have been raised by councils including Fife over scrapping the minimum distance. They fear mourners will be interrupted by parties and music coming from neighbouring homes.

A spokeswoman for the Scottish Government said: “The location of new developments, including crematoriums, is a matter for the local planning system.

“All planning applications are determined on their individual merit, in accordance with the development plan and consideration is given to a range of issues, such as privacy and decency, preservation of sanctity, tranquillity, traffic and increased footfall.

“Location and the individual characteristics of the site and proposal are likely to be key considerations in decision making.”

She added the Government will set out the issues councils must consider for crematorium proposals in the next update of the Scottish Planning Policy.