Historic buildings at Scartho Cemetery move a step closer to being brought back into use with restoration works having commenced this week.

Following the restoration of the Cemetery Gates in 2019 and first phase of conservation works to the Cemetery Chapels in 2021, the next stage of conservation works is now ready to begin.

The works will focus on the iconic Cemetery Lodge, which has been empty and semi-derelict for 15 years, as well as the Cemetery Chapels and Waiting Rooms.

Th next phase of the works will ensure these buildings are watertight to halt further deterioration. The primary focus will be on the restoration and conservation of the internal and external structure and fabric elements of the buildings including masonry, roofing, windows and doors and rainwater goods.

The buildings will then be able to dry out and acclimatise prior to the next phase of works, which will finally bring the buildings back into use after 15 years.

The works will be undertaken by Burnley based ‘UK restoration Services’ a specialist conservation contractor who previously undertook the works to the Cemetery Chapels and project managed by EQUANS.

The project will commence with the re-pointing of the Chapel spire and restoration works to the former Waiting Rooms and Gatekeepers Lodge will follow.

This work is part of the final stages of a five-year plan to bring the council’s heritage assets up to a reasonable state of repair and preservation.