A programme of works is to take place to improve a key structure at Hull’s Northern Cemetery.
The Northern Columbarium has suffered significantly at the hands of Mother Nature over a period of decades, leading to some walls and columns becoming severely weathered.
Other parts of the 90-year-old walled area have been affected by tree roots.
The overall consequence is the Columbarium being affected by subsidence and its long-term structural integrity being in question, as well as pathways lifting and cracking.
To make safe the structure and its surroundings, two phases of work will occur – the first involving surveying the area and carrying out essential pathway repairs, with the second seeing major repairs to the walls and structure.
The first phase is provisionally due to run from November 2026 to February 2027, with a two week break during Christmas.
The timeframe for the second phase will be determined from the findings of phase one.
Hull City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities and Community Safety, Councillor Ted Dolman, said: “The Northern Cemetery is a beautiful, historic and tranquil place, which provides an ideal setting for remembering those no longer with us.
“The Columbarium is a key part of this, providing above-ground vaults to inter the ashes of loved ones, which are sealed with a plaque.
“We want to preserve its history for many generations to come.
“This programme of works will do that, as well as making sure that it’s a lovely and safe place for everyone to visit and enjoy.”
Leaseholders of Columbarium vaults are receiving letters advising them that there may be limitations on accessing the Columbarium – either in part or in total – during the period of the works.
Access may be restricted to maintain health and safety requirements while the work is ongoing.
They’ve also been told that there is the possibility that some of the necessary improvements may require some ashes to be temporarily removed and stored.
Where that occurs, leaseholders will be contacted appropriately and kept fully informed of developments.
Any work involving ashes being moved would be carried out by the Council’s dedicated experienced bereavement officers.
The Council, in the letter, has apologised to leaseholders for any distress this may cause.
Any leaseholders who do not receive a letter, including those who might have recently changed addresses, are urged to contact Hull Bereavement Services via a dedicated webform, telephoning 01482 614 976, or in person at the office at Chanterlands Crematorium to ensure contact details are up to date.
For more information on Northern Cemetery, including the Northern Columbarium, please visit Northern Cemetery – Bereavement Services.