Northampton’s new Public Mortuary secures planning approval

09 January 2025

Plans to deliver a state-of-the-art public mortuary in Northampton have taken a significant step forward, as planning permission has been officially granted. This major milestone paves the way for work to begin later this month on a facility that will transform bereavement and post-mortem services for families across Northamptonshire and the wider region.  

Once completed in autumn 2025, the new mortuary will be a purpose-built facility, designed to deliver the highest standards of care and compassion during some of the most challenging times in people’s lives. It will provide modern, dignified spaces for families, including private viewing and identification areas, ensuring a compassionate and respectful experience for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. 

The facility will seek to provide services that are currently unavailable locally. The facility will simplify existing services by consolidating them into one central location, reducing the need for travel between various local. For professionals such as funeral directors and healthcare staff, this will mean a more efficient and accessible service, while families will benefit from quicker outcomes and reduced delays. 

“The new mortuary is more than just a building – it’s a commitment to better care, greater compassion, and smarter, more efficient services. 

“Bereavement is one of the hardest experiences anyone can go through, and this new facility will make that process a little easier by providing families with the dignity, care, and support they deserve. 

“It’s also a big step forward in how we manage and deliver post-mortem services, using modern technology to reduce delays and create a better experience for everyone involved."

Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member HR and Corporate services at WNC

Beyond its immediate services, the mortuary will play a vital role in disaster preparedness. It will be equipped to support emergency services and police in the event of a major incident, including mass fatality situations. This capability ensures Northamptonshire is better prepared to respond to unexpected challenges while continuing to provide essential services to the community. 

Construction is set to begin in early 2025, with initial works focusing on ground preparation and site readiness. The project will be delivered by Stepnells LTD, a contractor with extensive experience in delivering projects of this scale.