THE man behind a proposed crematorium in Hooton promises to be sensitive towards residents and the local environment.

It follows a decision by councillors to keep the scheme alive by supporting the principle that the borough needs its own crematorium.

Richard Evans, managing director of applicants the Westerleigh Group, claimed the planning committee's 6-4 vote against rejecting the scheme reflected the views of many residents in the area.

He said this was shown in independent polls and a 1,400 signature petition in favour which was handed in to the council in November.

Mr Evans added: 'This will be a place of peace and tranquillity.

'We often find that a few years after a new crem has been in operation residents who were once the most vociferous in opposing it being built become its fiercest advocates.

'I'm confident we can allay people's fears and they'll come to recognise the value of having a crem which provides a caring service at good value to local families.' The company says the facility, proposed for Waterworks Lane, Hooton, will be 'invisible' from neighbouring houses and roads.

It would not only preserve existing trees and a pond but also plant new trees and dig a new pond. New grassland would act as a backdrop to the memorial gardens. New habitats would be created for bats, water voles, newts and butterflies.