Barking and Dagenham Council has invested £400,000 in improvement works to Chadwell Heath Cemetery.
The cemetery has benefited from significant improvements including landscaping to enhance the site, tree and shrub planting, new footpaths, fencing and pergolas, and the introduction of a Pet Cemetery.
Improvements have expanded to also include a multi-faith prayer room, new toilet and washing facilities for all faiths, and to provide specific facilities for the Muslim faith to attract additional burials.
The main build provides a combined Multi-Faith Prayer and Reflection Facility, washing areas and separate toilet facilities in a single new building of approximately 100 square metres.
Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, Councillor Saima Ashraf, said: “It’s fantastic to see just how improved the facilities are at Chadwell Heath Cemetery. The council listened to local residents and I am proud to see the improvements which include a brand new Multi-Faith and Reflection Facility complete with wash areas and separate toilet facilities.
“A huge thank you must be extended to Al Madina Mosque and Gardens of Peace. Their continued support from the early stages has played a huge role in making this project a real success.”
Support from Al Madina Mosque also included furnishings and new carpet in the building as well as staff training offered by Gardens of Peace around the Muslim burial process.
Councillor Kashif Haroon, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Climate Change, said: “This important and collaborative work means we can continue to support the burial needs of our borough and provide a peaceful place for people to come and remember their loved ones for many years to come.”
With the new facility, the council is now able to offer a multi-faith burial and interment service, for over 20 years based on current burials, providing excellent facilities and having consideration for all faith requirements and none, for residents of Barking and Dagenham and the local area.
For more information, visit www.lbbd.gov.uk/cemeteries