Kirklees Council is spending £8m on improving bereavement services facilities in Dewsbury, Huddersfield and Slaithwaite.

At the existing crematorium site in Dewsbury Moor, a new building will be constructed and is expected to open in 2010.

In 2003 the Reporter series, including the Guardian and Herald, launched a campaign to stop Kirklees considering closing Dewsbury Crematorium and building a new facility half-way between here and Huddersfield.

Hundreds of people signed a petition to keep the crem in Dewsbury.

Coun David Hall (Con, Liv/Gom), cabinet member for bereavement services, said Kirklees had recognised people wanted it to stay put.

He said: "The need for a new Dewsbury facility was identified some years ago. The siting of a replacement crematorium was subject of consultation, the result being an overwhelming preference for it to be in the existing crematorium site area.

"We will be providing a modern 'state-of-the-art' facility fit for the 21st century. The crematorium itself, and associated services and facilities, will provide a top quality service in a sensitive and caring setting, providing maximum choice and using the very best practices.

"Display areas for memorials will be built into the design with relatives given a maximum of choice. There will be improvements to other aspects such as car parking and crematorium grounds."

Feasibility studies will be carried out between April and August, followed by design work up to December. Tendering processes will be completed by March 2009, with building work starting in April and being completed by April 2010.