West Hampstead Cemetery

It’s not often in construction that we get to work close to “The Hand of God” but at the West Hampstead Cemetery Chapel Project we certainly did.

Designed by Charles Bell the Chapel and surroundings still have the feel of being in a countryside setting, despite being in the bustling city.

A site of outstanding history in need of a sympathetic renovation with full respect to the sanctity of the existing building. This historic site is of significance to London’s past, having the graves of notables such as Marie Lloyd, Kate Greenaway and Joseph Lister along with many more knights of the old Empire.

Benning Construction cleansed and upgraded 2 of the ancient chapels. A full restoration of both interior and exterior complementing the historic significance of the building was required.

The fabric of the Chapel had fallen into disrepair and required a complete makeover. Tradesmen with traditional craft skills were required to remodel ancient moldings.

Not only the ancient skills but a team of those with the ability to handle materials of the recent past also required special application.

Specialist Work undertaken included:
 Fabric repairs
  Natural slate roof repairs & leadwork
 Re-pointing externally with lime/cement mortar
 Natural Stone restoration
 Rising & penetrating damp preservation
 Helix re-inforcement ties to counter structural movement