Memorial Safety Inspections at Chigwell Cemetery

Published: 21 August 2026

Notice to Grave Owners and Visitors

Chigwell Parish Council is commencing a programme of Memorial Safety Inspections at Chigwell Cemetery. As the cemetery is open to the public, the Council has a duty to ensure that memorials remain safe and that the cemetery continues to be accessible for all visitors. In line with national guidance and the Council's cemetery regulations, inspections will be carried out by suitably trained and authorised staff.

Immediate Action on Fallen Memorials

With immediate effect, the Council will begin affixing notices to memorials that are currently lying down.

Please note that it is not the Council's policy to lay memorials down. These memorials may have been laid down by the grave owner, family members, visitors, contractors, or may have fallen over time.

The purpose of the notice is simply to indicate that the Council is aware of the memorial's condition and will be attempting to contact the registered grave owner regarding the memorial.

Contacting the Council

We recognise that contact details may change over time. If you are the grave owner, a family member, or a visitor associated with a plot displaying a Council notice, please contact us:

Chigwell Parish Council
Hainault Road, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6QZ

Telephone: 020 8501 4275

Email: admin@chigwellparishcouncil.gov.uk

Notice of Wider Memorial Inspections

Following this initial work, the Council will undertake inspections of memorials throughout the cemetery.

In accordance with the Council's cemetery regulations, 28 days' notice is hereby given on 21 August 2026 that wider memorial safety inspections will commence. Inspections will include visual assessments and approved hand or device testing methods used to identify memorials that may present a safety risk.

The Council reminds all grave owners of the importance of keeping their contact details up to date so that we can remain in communication regarding the maintenance and safety of memorials.

We thank residents and visitors for their cooperation as we carry out this essential safety work.