The Hills Shire Council has completed its upgrade of Castle Hill Cemetery.
The $3.78 million makeover included enhancing the amenity of the site, as well as increasing the burial capacity with more than 2000 new spaces for ash burials and a further 300 for lawn burials.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said that she is impressed with the outcome.
"Castle Hill Cemetery plays an important role in bringing family and friends together to pay tribute to a loved one, and this upgrade delivers a sense of peace and tranquillity in which to do that," Mayor Byrne said.
"The natural setting around the cemetery provided inspiration for the design and layout of the upgrade. Visitors will notice that we've incorporated natural elements, such as stone, and a lot of greenery, which make it visually appealing, and also adds a calming element.
"The memorial garden is the centrepiece of the cemetery. The columbarium walls, which are located within this garden, provide a sheltered place where the community can take time to reflect and pay their respects. It's also been designed in a circular manner to let in natural light, producing a halo-like effect.
"We've also managed to expand the cemetery within its existing boundaries to provide more interment spaces.
"I'm really proud of the work which has been completed, and I'm sure those who visit the cemetery will agree that we've created a really special place that is respectful and commemorative," Mayor Byrne added.
The scope of works completed at Castle Hill Cemetery included:
- Construction of a contemporary memorial garden facility incorporating new columbarium walls;
- Upgrade of the existing central avenue to formalise the road way and provide as much parking as possible;
- Construction of front entry wall, gate and fencing to improve identification of the cemetery and improve pedestrian access;
- Expansion of lawn burial areas to increase availability for a further five years;
- Footpath links to Gilbert Road and Fred Caterson Reserve; and
- Relocation of the existing columbarium wall with increased availability of ash interment sites for the next 10-20 years.
