This moment marks the culmination of a six-year, £7.2 million restoration project supported by a £4.6million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund (£4.1m), along with Lambeth Council (£2.6m), and the Friends of West Norwood Cemetery (£2,000).
The extensive project has seen one of London’s most historic cemeteries, which is also one of the capital’s ‘Magnificent Seven’, completely restored, creating new opportunities for community access, learning, and cultural events.
Key project achievements include:
- The restoration of St Stephen’s Chapel, the site’s largest Grade II listed mausoleum, now available for public hire
- A new visitor centre and community space at the refurbished Lodge building
- Major upgrades to drainage, roads, and pathways
- The conservation of 17 at-risk listed monuments
- A brand new interpretation scheme highlighting the cemetery’s rich history and notable figures
- A long-term maintenance and management plan to protect the 40-acre Grade II listed landscape
The Grand Opening ceremony will feature the Mayor of Lambeth, cabinet members, alongside invited guests, partners, and residents.
Cllr Donatus Anyanwu, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, said:
“The restoration of West Norwood Cemetery is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about bringing history to life and reconnecting our communities with this unique and sacred space. From a derelict chapel to a venue that can now host concerts and community events, this project is a shining example of what’s possible when heritage and people come together. We are incredibly proud of this transformation.”
Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:
“Cemeteries provide vital connections to our history, local communities and nature, although their role as public open green spaces is often overlooked. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, some of the most at-risk heritage within West Norwood Cemetery’s 40 acres has been saved for everyone to enjoy now and in the future. It is an important community asset – combining a place of rest for those who are buried there with a space for heritage, culture and nature to thrive.”
The Grand Opening on Saturday 31 May at 11am is free and open to all. Residents, heritage enthusiasts, and families are warmly invited to explore the revitalised site and learn more about the people and stories it holds.
