A new crematorium is believed to be taking trade away from one in a neighbouring authority.
It is thought the opening of Three Counties Crematorium in High Garrett in April has led to a downturn in cremations at Chelmsford Crematorium.
Chelmsford Council, which runs the borough’s crematorium, is putting up the price of a cremation as a result.
It will rise from £479 to £504, whereas a cremation at Three Counties costs £550.
Stuart Cox, corporate communications manager at Dignity Funerals Limited, which runs Three Counties, said it had provided 310 services since opening on April 6, and had served families from Braintree, Chelmsford and Stansted.
Lisa Penrose, manager at Three Counties Crematorium, said: “Three Counties Crematorium is state of the art with very modern facilities.
“We are able to offer increased convenience for the local community through shorter journey times and we are able to offer longer service times than other crematoria in the area."
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