The Friends of Highgate Cemetery Trust will carry out urgent work on key historic structures across the site, including the Grade I listed Circle of Lebanon, Egyptian Avenue and the Grade II listed Terrace Catacombs.
These structures have suffered damage caused by the climate crisis and invasive growth, but this work will safeguard the site as an active burial ground and sanctuary for all. It will also restore views across London, including the one from the Terrace Catacombs towards St Paul's Cathedral.
Alongside, a new public programme exploring themes of nature, heritage and reflection will open the cemetery to a broader range of people. This includes:
- new opportunities for children and young people, including a sustainable and quality community and schools programme
- apprenticeships, volunteering, gardening work placements and skill building creative initiatives
- new staff dedicated to working with local organisations, schools and community groups
Dr Ian Dungavell, Chief Executive of the Friends of Highgate Cemetery Trust, said: “We are excited by the opportunity to work with local communities in new ways. The cemetery has been cared for by volunteers for 50 years, but there are many people living nearby for whom it remains out of reach. We want to change that through new activities, new partnerships with schools and community groups and by opening the Dissenters’ Chapel as a public space for the first time in many years. We want everyone to feel that the cemetery is theirs to enjoy.”
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