Report of the Head of Parks, Open Spaces and Projects

RESOLVED –

1.         that the proposals outlined and the design submitted by Southern Green Landscape Architects be accepted.

2.         that progress to detailed design, procurement and appointment of a contractor be agreed.

3.         that negotiation and work with neighbouring authorities in Hertfordshire about provision of burial space to meet future demands be agreed.

Cabinet received a report of the Head of Parks, Open Spaces and Projects summarising a proposal to expand the existing North Watford Cemetery site within the boundaries of the existing cemetery, based on unused land, currently ornamental landscape as well as options to pursue further provision outside of the Borough with neighbouring authorities.

Councillor Williams introduced the report.  A review of the cemetery service had been carried out five years ago and in 2016 a 10-year strategy had been adopted.  There had been concern about capacity at the site, which had led to other options being considered.  The report before Cabinet set out how it would be possible to provide some additional capacity at North Watford Cemetery.  Officers were already working to find ways of working with neighbouring authorities on this issue.

Finally Councillor Williams wished to thank all those officers who had been working at the cemetery over the last few months.  There had been a significant increase in the number of burials being carried out.  The cemetery had continued to retain its Green Flag and had recently received the ICCM Gold Award.

The Head of Parks, Heritage and Culture thanked Councillor Williams for his kind words about the team.  He commented that the proposal before members would provide some additional capacity until an alternative solution could be found.

Councillor Bell also thanked the cemetery team for their work during the pandemic.  He stated he was putting a question on behalf of Councillor Khan.  He asked if extra water points would be installed within the cemetery.  With regard to co-operating with another authority he enquired if the Watford rates would have to change in line with the other council.

Councillor Williams responded that it had been hoped that the water points and extra pathways would have been completed by the previous contractor.  However, Covid-19 had meant that the work had to stop.  The council would ensure this work was completed either by the previous contractor or a new one.  The work with another authority had yet to be formulated.  It was at a very early stage and therefore difficult to be specific about costs etc.

RESOLVED –

1.         that the proposals outlined and the design submitted by Southern Green Landscape Architects be accepted.

2.         that progress to detailed design, procurement and appointment of a contractor be agreed.

3.         that negotiation and work with neighbouring authorities in Hertfordshire about provision of burial space to meet future demands be agreed.