Douglas Council brings in new charges for crematorium

Local authority says new media system will improve quality of services

Douglas City Council has confirmed new charges are being introduced for 'enhanced funeral webcasting and media services' at the crematorium.

In January the local authority agreed to spend £7,000 to upgrade the sound system due to the old system becoming 'inefficient'.

It says the previous system offered a basic streaming service with 'limited functionality' and poor audio quality which often failed to capture important parts of a funeral service clearly.

The council says the introduction of new charges reflects the cost of delivering and maintaining the facility. 

A cremation will now cost £1093; on a Saturday the fee will increase to £1309.

"To ensure family and friends can watch a service without interruption, dedicated equipment, specialist software, secure hosting and technical support are required. These services are provided by an external specialist company and help ensure the broadcast is reliable, secure and of an appropriate standard for the occasion." - Douglas City Council 

The council adds the new system will provide a 'much higher' livestreaming standard as well as better audio quality and the ability to display visual tributes during services.  

It says these changes will provide more ways to personalise services and ensure lasting memories can be shared with relatives and friends both on and off the Island.

The local authority adds it remains committed to providing high-quality bereavement services and will continue to review the fees to ensure they remain fair, proportionate and sustainable while meeting the needs of families during difficult times.