Brent Council is introducing additional safety measures around the historic chapels at Paddington Old Cemetery, after recent structural inspections flagged concerns about their condition.
The chapels date back to the 1850s, and despite repairs over the years their condition has deteriorated. On the advice of specialists, the council is in the process of reviewing security and safety arrangements around the buildings to protect visitors, staff and contractors.
Additional measures could include a larger area being fenced off, improved hoardings and changes to access around the site while specialist work is carried out.
The Grade II listed chapels are an important part of the cemetery. They remain on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register, and many local residents, community groups and heritage organisations are keen to see the chapels restored and brought back into use.
The council has spent several years exploring options for their future. A restoration project is estimated to cost millions of pounds, and so a major part of this work has been discussions with Historic England and other organisations about funding. The council has also commissioned surveys, structural inspections, repair work, and a major study looking at possible restoration and future uses.
While restoring the chapels remains the council's long-term goal, its immediate priority is making sure the buildings are safe and fully understanding the work needed to protect them for future generations.
The latest structural assessments have shown that further investigation is needed before decisions can be made about the long-term future of the buildings.
Recognising the strong interest in the future of the chapels, the council is reviewing its communication and engagement arrangements to make sure local residents, Friends of Paddington Cemetery and other interested groups receive updates as significant milestones are reached.