AN ENTREPRENEUR has chosen the sleepy surrounds of Sampool Bridge, near Levens, to revive his plans for a South Lakeland crematorium, reports Lisa Frascarelli.

In Memoriam, a group of private investors whose controversial plans for a crematorium in Gatebeck were rejected in 1999, is back with a new £2 million vision which has the blessing of both the clergy and Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron.

Peter Michels, the man behind In Memoriam, says six years on from the furore caused by his failed plans for a development at Gatebeck, the time is right to try again.

"I think attitudes have changed dramatically and that is why In Memoriam is going ahead again," said Mr Michels, who has submitted the proposals to South Lakeland District Council.

"We have been encouraged by the support we have had this time from the clergy, nursing homes and MP Tim Farron.

"We believe we have found a site that does not cause anyone any problems. It has taken us five years to find and it is as good as you will come across in the area."

The six-acre site, just off the westbound side of the A590, would deal with six cremations a day and, according to Mr Michels and the clergy, would save South Lakeland families the distress of having to make the long journey to Lancaster, Barrow or Carlisle.

Vicar of Kendal Parish Church, Canon Ron Metcalfe, said the need for a crematorium in South Lakes was desperate.

"It is absolutely essential for this area that a crematorium is built," said Mr Metcalfe.

"Providing it is in a sensitive location, I think there is a strong and urgent need for one. Over and over again, I see families having to travel to either Lancaster or Barrow for a cremation, and it is really quite distressing for them."

Communications officer for the Roman Catholic church Cannon Stephen Shield agreed.

"I imagine there is a very strong need for a crematorium in the area," he said. "It is something I'm sure the Catholic Church would support."

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron agreed there was a "convincing case" for a crematorium in the area.

"It does seem quite inappropriate to be shuttling both the departed and their relatives over such long distances," he said.

The crematorium, which Mr Michels said would create about a dozen jobs, would feature a two-acre memorial ground. It would reflect the geography of South Lakeland, with a pond representing Windermere and various points around the water representing local towns and villages.

Mr Michels, who is urging members of the public to write in support of his plans to South Lakeland District Council, added: "The time is right for this, the number of people requiring the service has increased over the past ten years.

"People feel no empathy with Barrow or Lancaster and the last thing they want during such a distressing time is an hour long trip in the car."