CONTROVERSIAL plans for a crematorium to built at Beetham Hall have been rejected by councillors this morning.

Members of South Lakeland District Council's planning committee voted eight against four in favour of turning down the proposal at Kendal Town Hall.

If approved, the plan by funeral directors Fishwicks Ltd, would have seen the only crematorium in South Lakeland built.

The community was divided over the plans, with some saying it is necessary to reduce the distance mourners must travel to reach crematoriums at Lancaster and Barrow.

But others raised fears over its proximity to Beetham C of E School, as well as over increased traffic and pollution in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Members of Beetham Parish Council recommended refusal to the plans which involved converting a workshop into a chapel for 140 mourners, and creating an 70 space car park.

Cllr John Holmes said during a one hour long debate amongst councillors: "I have a lot of sympathy with families having to travel to Lancaster and I would like to offer them an alternative."

Cllr Janette Jenkinson said: "I think South Lakeland has a unique chance to offer an end of life journey in a peaceful setting."

But Cllr Sylvia Emmott disagreed. She said: "It is the most beautiful part of the world and are we going to be responsible of spoiling the AONB?"