Cemetery Lodge had been vacant and in need of substantial works, In conjunction with CPG it is now a 5 bedroom supported accommodation for adults with disabilities.

Serious consideration had to be given to the proximity of the graves and the use of chapel and interments. Hearses also pass by the front door. Design, security, support and resident selection were crucial.

CPG funded all the adaptations and internal fittings required. Cambridge City funded the structural works.

One of the skills we found most important was listening to all views and understanding why a request or element was required and to balance these against practical, cost and sympathetic action.

The negatives associated with living in a graveyard were viewed as positives by development team.

Little / no passing visitors causing disturbance, distance from neighbours, secure safe parking facilities and privacy / safety.

Where original features were impractical for shared use like the 100 yr old internal doors, these had to be replaced by fire doors and originals stored vertically in a heated environment.

The service is now providing long term suitable accommodation for 5 vulnerable persons in need.

Modern fire alarm systems are a key requirement in supported accommodation. Our contractors are aware and install with sympathy to the existing building and its features, at CL we installed CCTV / Fire panel in recessed Victorian cupboards that had no modern use.