In the heart of Chingford Mount Cemetery, substantial work is underway on what will become London’s newest crematorium: a long-anticipated facility designed to serve the local community. For many years, residents of Waltham Forest have had to travel outside the borough for cremation services, as no local crematorium has been available.  

Waltham Forest only has 8 years of burial capacity left so providing a crematorium will help residents arrange an in-borough funeral for years to come. 

In early 2025, planning permission was formally approved, and a contract awarded to begin development. The project team has since moved swiftly forward, with main construction set to begin and progress strongly toward a late 2026 opening. 

Although the main crematorium building is still in progress, key preparatory and early construction work is already well underway. This includes site investigations, groundwork, and landscaping preparation as the facility begins to take shape.  

The design reflects modern standards in crematorium development, including: 

• A purpose-built 80-seat chapel 

• Landscaped gardens and quiet areas for reflection, helping to create a tranquil environment for families.  

• Two electric cremators with advanced filtration technology to reduce environmental impact and support sustainability goals.  

The inclusion of EV charging stations, generous parking, cycle storage and thoughtful planting demonstrates a commitment to accessibility and community use.  

From the earliest consultation stages, community engagement has played a central role in shaping the project. Waltham Forest Council and the project team have held multiple engagement activities, responded to resident feedback, and worked closely with local councillors ensuring that the crematorium meets local needs and respects its surroundings.