GRIEVING families will be asked to pay up to 50% more for funerals under new plans.

The cost of a cremation in Brighton and Hove could face an inflation-busting rise of up to £150 if the council plans are given the go ahead.

Councillors said the “large increase” for families facing such difficult times should be brought in more gradually.

Officers defended the plans saying the rises were needed to balance the books of the council’s funeral services and to bring the council in-line with neighbouring authority’s charges.

Councillor Ann Norman, Conservative group finance spokeswoman, said: “This is a large increase to impose on bereaved families at an incredibly difficult time of their lives.

“However, I know from personal experience that they do provide a fantastic service, much better in fact than others who charge considerably more.”

Under the plans, the fee for an adult cremation after 10am on a week day would increase by 35% to £600.

The council said this was cheaper than both Worthing Borough Council which charges £631 and Eastbourne District Council where it costs £605.

The cost of a cremation, before 9.30am on a weekday, will increase by 49% to £300 compared to £360 in Worthing and £590 in Eastbourne.

The rises would increase annual income by around £340,000, cancelling out its current annual shortfall.

Wedding registration costs are also set to increase but only by 5% with the council outlining a determination to encourage more winter weddings with discount packages.

The proposals will be discussed at the council’s policy and resources committee next Thursday from 4pm.