A planning decision due last week has been delayed as the developers, consisting of two local businessmen along with former Clare county councillor, Tony McMahon, and Shannon town councillor Sean Hillery, requested a four-month extension to address some of the issues raised by the local authority, including the use of space and traffic management.

However, the developers say they are confident their application will be successful, particularly since parish priest of Shannon, Fr Tom Ryan has pledged his support to the project.

"This is something I have welcomed from the very beginning and advocated for Shannon since I arrived here as a curate in 1992. In my work as a priest over the years, I have come across many bereaved families who would have availed of the option of cremation if it were available locally. Up to now, the thought of having to travel to Dublin has been offputting for many families at a time of grief in their lives, " said Fr Ryan.

The proposed development will be beside Illaunamanagh cemetery and is set to include a 12-tonne crematorium unit and furnace, along with a multi-denominational chapel with seating for up to 70 people, to be built about 100 yards from the crematorium.

Other plans for the site include a garden of remembrance surrounded by an ornate wall where families can inter the cremated remains of their relatives.

"Shannon, as Ireland's newest town, has been the pioneer of many new initiatives such as the airport and the successful Shannon Free Zone.

"Just like the airport has been of invaluable service to the west of Ireland and the Munster region, I feel that this project will be of benefit to the community at large and especially for grieving families, " Fr Ryan concluded.

According to local undertakers, around 7% of business requests from the Shannon area are for cremation, although at present Dublin is the only option for this service.