The new facility would replace the current temporary mortuary at Chingford Mount Cemetery reports Josh Mellor, Local Democracy Reporter

The temporary mortuary compound at Chingford Mount Cemetery — The temporary mortuary in Chingford Mount Cemetery. (Credit – Catherine Suamarez)

Waltham Forest Council is hoping to build a “flagship” new crematorium in Chingford.

A new “contemporary, purpose-built” crematorium in Chingford Mount Cemetery would replace the current temporary mortuary compound set up during the pandemic.

The council is developing designs for a 450sqm building including a waiting area, family viewing area, chapel, crematorium space and office area.

However, a report expected to be considered by cabinet last week that would have asked council officers to proceed with the £8.4m project has been pushed back until next month.

Council leader Grace Williams said the cabinet needed to ensure “proper scoping” of the project.

She added: “It’s a really beneficial project, not only in terms of the service and the borough but also the local area.”

In a “return on investment” estimate the council believes a new-build crematorium could make a profit of £21million over 25 years.

The new service would need to carry out about 1,200 cremations per year at a fee of about £900 each.

Benefits of a new crematorium include easing “funeral day logistics”, accommodating residents of diverse beliefs, reducing traffic and creating additional revenue, the report says.

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Although the council began looking at the feasibility of a new crematorium in 2020, local councillor Catherine Suamarez told the Local Democracy Reporting Service she was not aware of any plans until this week.

Neither of the two design options being considered have been published.

Both designs include fridge storage and two modern electric cremators, which would “significantly reduce” emissions compared to those that use gas.

Waltham Forest’s main public mortuary at Queen’s Road Cemetery, next to Walthamstow Coroner’s Court, is currently being rebuilt.

The temporary mortuary in Chingford Mount Cemetery is set in steel containers and is surrounded by wooden fencing.

Although the temporary set up was installed during the pandemic, the council did not grant itself planning permission until March this year.

The temporary containers and fencing must be removed by November this year, according to a decision issued by the council.

Cllr Suamarez said: “Larkswood ward councillors recognize that our cemetery is rapidly reaching capacity, and that we must look for a sustainable and longer-term plan to lay our residents to rest.

“Having a local crematorium would certainly be a dignified way for local families to say goodbye to loved ones.

“Obviously, a full and transparent planning application will have to be submitted, including ground surveys, but what really needs clarifying before any further approval is that any crematorium is discreet, dignified and would not cause disturbance to any nearby homes.”

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