From 5 January 2026, construction is scheduled to begin at Inverness Crematorium as part of a project to upgrade the current cremators.
Councillor Graham MacKenzie, Chair of Highland Council’s Communities and Place Committee said: “The Cremator Replacement Project at Inverness Crematorium is a major initiative aimed at meeting forthcoming UK Government emission standards, upgrading to modern and more efficient cremators and improving the overall quality of service facilities.”
The construction works will include the refurbishment of the small chapel to better accommodate direct cremations and smaller services, as well as upgrades in the main chapel, featuring a new catafalque and refurbished committal area. A new extension will be built to house the new cremators and abatement systems. These improvements will introduce advanced cremation technology and enhanced chapel spaces, all while ensuring continuity of service through a carefully phased construction programme.
The project is expected to be completed by late 2026, restoring full operational capacity and ensuring compliance with new environmental regulations.
During the refurbishment, there will be an impact on service delivery and Funeral Directors have been informed of the temporary arrangements. Chapel service times will be reduced to three per day at 10:00, 11:00 and 12:00, with an increased number of direct cremation slots available. At certain stages of the project, overall capacity may be limited to five cremations per day.
Cllr MacKenzie continued: “We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation during this essential project, which will ensure ongoing high quality facilities to the public and continuing compliance with environmental standards.”
31 Dec 2025