Northwood Cemetery, Cowes, Isle of Wight

Northwood Cemetery is the second largest municipal cemetery on the Isle of Wight, and dates back to 1856. Throughout its operation as a cemetery, both of the Chapels have been key original features of the site. Unfortunately, from the second half of the twentieth century onwards, their physical condition had deteriorated resulting in the closure and basic mothballing (windows boarded up) of both buildings.

The restoration work was to rescue the two Grade II listed Victoria Chapels from potential collapse as well as to repair and conserve the Grade II listed Wall of the Cemetery. The project, which included significant below ground structural works, masonry repairs, re-roofing and reinstatement of the single storey lean-to extension, engaged the local community and is to act as the focal point for the regeneration of the wider landscape for improved community use.

The project initiative was a collaborative venture by Friends of Northwood Cemetery (FoNC) in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council to provide a unique visitor experience with better interpreted heritage. The works and repairs were grant assisted by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the overall enhancement scheme for the Cemetery.