Halifax Town’s ground to become temporary morgue

The home of FC Halifax Town and Halifax RLFC could become a temporary morgue amid the coronavirus pandemic according to new plans

According to plans the Shay Stadium, which is owned by Calderdale Council, would be brought into use if the number of funerals and cremations in Calderdale exceed the borough’s capacity.

Andrew Pitts, assistant director for neighbourhoods at the council commented that although the plans were in place they hope “not to need to use it.”

He added: “We have a statutory responsibility to plan for any potential increase in numbers of people who pass away in the borough. All local authorities have been asked to put in place arrangements for temporary facilities if they reach a point where they are unable to conduct funerals and cremations at a rate at which deaths are occurring.

“In Calderdale, the Shay Stadium has been identified as the most appropriate location for this purpose.”

The stadium isn’t the only building being used by the for purposes other than their normal roles, with the council stating North Bridge Leisure Centre in Halifax, is being used as the distribution centre for food for vulnerable residents.