Inspector of Burial, Cremation and Funeral Directors: annual report 2024 to 2025

Findings by the Senior Inspector in reporting year

7. Currently one new crematorium is being built in East Lothian, scheduled to open later in 2025. There are a number of further applications (at various stages) for new Crematorium throughout Scotland.

8. The main findings from the inspections confirmed that there continues to be 100% recovery of ashes from all cremations.

9. All crematoria were found to be performing to a good or high standard, adequately staffed, and operating below their maximum capabilities as regards numbers of cremations.

10. It was noted that over the past year there has been a significant number of Crematorium Managers who have retired, (or left for other reasons), with around 8 of the 34 crematoria now under new management, or temporary replacement.

11. These senior positions tend to be filled by personnel currently working within the funeral industry.

12. Prior to implementation of the Burial and Cremation (Inspection) (Scotland) Regulations 2025, crematoria in Scotland have been subject to an annual inspection.

13. From 1^st March 2025, in accordance with the terms of the new Regulations, Inspections of Cremation Authorities, Burial Authorities and Funeral Directors, will be carried out ‘where it is considered appropriate to do so’.