Overview

In August 2023, MGM Construction was awarded the Cemetery Wall Scheme by Newcastle City Council, valued at over £1 million. The works are ongoing, with completion expected in 2025. This significant conservation project spans six cemeteries across Newcastle, all of which hold historical and cultural value. The scheme requires a sensitive approach, ensuring the heritage of each site is preserved while maintaining public safety and minimising disruption.

The Project

The cemeteries involved are Heaton Cemetery, Jesmond Old Cemetery, St Nicholas Cemetery, St James Cemetery, West Road Crematorium and Cemetery, and Lemington Cemetery.

MGM Construction and its trusted subcontractors are carrying out a range of restoration and conservation works, including:

  • Vegetation clearance
  • Masonry restoration
  • Railing and gate repairs
  • Structural and render repairs
  • Timber fence and joinery work

Special attention is given to historically significant locations such as the Grade II listed Jesmond Old Cemetery, the Gothic west entrance of St Nicholas Cemetery, and the pioneering West Road Crematorium. At Lemington Cemetery, extensive vegetation removal was critical to address severe cracking in boundary walls before render repairs could be completed.

Challenges

Working within active cemeteries required careful coordination with Newcastle City Council to avoid disruption to visitors, services, and burials. MGM implemented:

  • A designated contractor compound at each site
  • Phased deliveries to avoid peak visitor periods and scheduled services
  • Segregated work zones to protect the public while enabling multiple trades to operate efficiently

Close collaboration with cemetery staff and Northern Bear Health & Safety advisors ensured robust traffic management and public safety measures throughout the project.

Preserving Heritage for the Future

By restoring and conserving these six cemeteries, MGM Construction is safeguarding important heritage sites for future generations while ensuring they remain safe, accessible, and respectful spaces for the public. Cemeteries are places of remembrance, and their boundary walls form part of that dignity and protection. Addressing structural issues now avoids more costly and complex repairs in the future, while also preventing cracks and gaps from allowing water and vegetation to accelerate decay. In fulfilling this work, MGM is helping the Council meet its obligations to maintain safe public spaces, protecting both the historical integrity and the cultural significance of these community landmarks.