Crematorium Chapels

Southampton Crematorium was designed during the 1960’s, to replace the old South Stoneham Crematorium, and is typical of buildings of this period. Constructed by W E Chivers & Sons Ltd and opened on 27th September 1973 by the Right Reverend Dr S Faulkener Alison, Bishop of Winchester. The general structure of the building has changed very little, apart from some minor alterations, in the last 30 years. The roofs over the floral tribute areas were added during the 1980’s and the 15m chimney was constructed during 1999 to meet the demands of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. A major rewire of the building took place during 2005 which included upgrading the lighting throughout the public areas. Further alterations to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act included two disabled toilets, Braille signage, ramps and hand rails were completed the same year.

The Chapels
The West Chapel is situated on the left side of the building and the East Chapel, the larger of the two chapels, on the right. The East chapel seats 95 with room for approximately an additional 60 to 70 standing, the West chapel seats 28 with additional standing room for 20 to 30 people.
Monitor speakers are fitted outside the East chapel entrance should the congregation be too large for the chapel. The chapel's are fitted with inductive loop systems for the hard of hearing and Wyvern electronic organs.

The catafalque's are furnished with curtains, which are normally closed at the moment of committal. The altar cross in both chapels can be removed, if so desired, for non-Christian or secular services. Religious symbols for the Sikh and Hindu faiths are also available. Copies of Funeral Services of the Christian Churches and the BBC Songs of Praise hymn book are available in both chapels.

Wesley on-line music systems are fitted in both chapels and services can be recorded or web cast in either sound only or full video, for further details of this service select a link on the right hand menu.