Planning Minister Clint Camilleri has given final approval to Malta’s policy for standalone crematoria, fulfilling a Labour Party election promise, Times of Malta revealed.

The “Policy and design guidance for the development of standalone crematoria” will be published soon, allowing for the creation of cremation facilities in Malta.

Camilleri emphasised that cremation offers an alternative to traditional funerals, potentially reducing the need for cemetery expansions over time.

The policy outlines design and location requirements for crematoria, ensuring compliance with environmental and health regulations. It prohibits construction in sensitive areas such as industrial zones, scheduled sites, and agricultural land.

Crematoria must be easily accessible, meet emission standards, and incorporate modern filtration technology. The facilities should include essential elements like a mortuary, viewing room, cremation chamber, post-cremation room, and a garden of remembrance with a columbarium.

Crematorium buildings are restricted to a footprint of 500 square meters and a height of 7.7 meters, with a minimum distance of 183 meters from residential areas.

Malta legalised cremation in 2019, but the development of standalone crematoria has been delayed due to the lack of clear guidelines. With this policy now in place, the Planning Authority can proceed with reviewing pending applications, giving Maltese families a viable option for cremation.

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Source: Times of Malta