Agenda item

Report of the Director of Open Spaces.

The Committee received a report of the Director of Open Spaces regarding the outcome of the first quarter of the 2015-18 business plan for the Cemetery and Crematorium. Members noted the excellent income performance of the Cemetery and Crematorium and the progress of the Shoot Project, which was due to commence in late September 2015 and be completed in early 2016.

In response to Members’ questions regarding the need to increase the level of fully abated cremations, the Superintendent of the Cemetery and Crematorium advised that the target of 60% and actual performance of 64% was above the national legal requirement of 50%. He added that the other non-abated equipment was due to be replaced by abated cremators by 2021, which should result in 100% abatement and 0% mercury emissions. Members noted their support for the increase in abatement and reduction in mercury emissions as soon as possible to demonstrate how the City of London Corporation could lead the field in this area.

The Director of Port Health and Public Protection added that mercury emission levels and current controls around the area surrounding the Cemetery and Crematorium would be provided to the Superintendent and subsequently reported to the Committee.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.