A funeral home has vowed to continue its battle to open Bermuda’s first crematorium after its bid to build one in Southampton was rejected by planners.

Amis Memorial Chapel’s proposals to construct a crematorium on Industrial Road were refused by the Development Applications Board last Wednesday.

But Martha Amis told The Royal Gazette that the funeral home would now look to alternative locations due to recent rise in demand for cremations on the island.

Ms Amis, a grief counsellor, said she hoped to dispel myths and removed the stigma attached to a crematorium in order to push ahead with new proposals.

“It is important we tackle the public perception of what a crematorium is as we try to move forward.” said Ms Amis.

“There will not be bodies piling up or smoke billowing out of the chimney. The technology used in these facilities is incredible. All the technology used is totally safe and environmentally friendly.

“Many of the concerns that members of the public have are unfounded and we will work to improve their understanding as we move forward.

“The simple fact is the Island needs this kind of facility due to the demand and we will continue to look for a suitable location.”

Amis Memorial Chapel has not been provided with reasons for the Development Applications Board’s decision.

But Ms Amis insisted it would continue to explore alternative locations to build the Island’s first crematorium.

She added: “There really are not a lot of choices of where one of these buildings could be put so we are limited in where we look next.

“But the need for it is great and we are trying to focus on education and letting people know the importance of having a facility in Bermuda.

“We want to ease people’s apprehension about having a crematorium on Island.”