BURY could get its own pet crematorium, if proposals to transform a vacant stable block are allowed to go ahead.

A planning application has been submitted to Bury Council, seeking to convert the site in Riders Gate, Bury, to a pet crematorium with the installation of an incinerator.

The applicant, John Wilson, says that the site needs another economically viable use and that the facility would be of benefit to local vets and pet owners, who currently have to travel to Rossendale to have animals cremated.

A statement submitted with the application says: "The nearest pet crematorium is at Crawshawbooth in Rossendale and there is no similar facility in the local area.

"Consultation has been carried out with local vets who would welcome the new crematorium. One vet uses a crematorium at Leyland and another sends dead animals as far as Doncaster.

"It would be more sustainable to avoid long vehicle journeys if permission can be granted for a pet crematorium in Bury."

The crematorium would handle only small animals, such as cats and dogs, and the building plans include a reception area and a quiet room.

According to the application, the stables were previously left to individual horse owners, who looked after their own animals, but there were "various problems" which led to them becoming vacant.

There is an existing cattery in a building adjacent to the site, which is close to Fairfield General Hospital.

The statement adds: "There is a definite need for a pet crematorium in the Bury area. It is a sustainable use that will reduce vehicle movements.

"It will provide employment for at least four people, a receptionist, a driver and two to run the crematorium.

"There will be no detrimental effect on the residential amenities of neighbours from smoke, odours, noise, or additional traffic."

Mr Wilson said: "I am aiming to guarantee owners that their pets will be cremated individually.

"The machine we will be using has been tested and has zero per cent odours and smoke, which is something I want people to understand is important to us."