A Lichfield funeral home is set to reopen following a £500,000 refurbishment.
The Central Co-op funeral home in Birmingham Road has been closed for three months for a makeover project which has seen ‘extensive’ building maintenance and repair works carried out, as well as the installation of replacement windows and an energy-efficient air conditioning system.
And now the flagship business – which has been operating in the city for more than 100 years – will relaunch with an open day tomorrow – when the ribbon will be cut by Cathy Wood, Sheriff of Lichfield.
Visitors will be able to see a display of the home’s fleet, including an electric hearse, limo, wheelchair vehicle and electric ambulance. There will also be stands from Central Co-op’s businesses and partners, as well as representatives from charities and local schools, at the event, which will run from 10am to 2pm.
The project also included roof repairs, car park relining, asbestos removal, damp proofing, wall insulation, security improvements and the refurbishment of two residential flats upstairs – as well as improved access and parking for wheelchair users.
The team – which is led by funeral director Ashley Wright and funeral arranger Janet Ray – have been seeing families at St John’s House while the home was closed.
A Central Co-op spokesperson said: “This day not only marks the renewal of a cherished local service but also highlights Central Co-op’s ongoing heritage and commitment to Lichfield, which is also home to our head office on Queens Street.
“We are proud that the regenerated funeral home will serve as our flagship location, continuing our long-standing tradition of community care and support.”
