The Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board met on Tuesday 23 June 2026 to approve the abstract of accounts for the 2025/26 financial year and the revised revenue estimates for 2026/27. The Board also reviewed and agreed the risk register and noted the annual governance statement.

Abstract of Accounts and Revised Estimates Approved

The Board approved the abstract of accounts for the 2025/26 financial year, which showed a deficit of £195,755. This was largely due to a reduction in rental income from contractors to a peppercorn rent to minimise the risk of breaching VAT partial exemption thresholds. The Board also approved the revised revenue estimates for 2026/27, which included a reduction in rates by nearly £9,000 and an increase of £30,000 for essential works on front railings. The overall common fund balance at the end of the financial year was just over £1.35 million. The Board noted the internal audit assurance statement, which confirmed the accounts reflected the year's activity, and reviewed and agreed the risk register as at June 2026.

Annual Governance Statement Noted

The Board noted and agreed the Annual Governance Statement for 2025-26. This statement confirms that the Merton and Sutton Joint Cemetery Board (MSJCB) has complied with its code of corporate governance, which aligns with the seven principles of the CIPFA/SOLACE Framework Delivering Good Governance in Local Government (2016) . The statement highlights that MSJCB utilises the systems and procedures of the London Borough of Merton to demonstrate good governance. Key issues facing the cemetery in 2026-27 were identified as the mobilisation of the new grounds maintenance contract and the planning for the setting out of a new section for burials.

Appointment of Treasurer Deferred

The appointment of a Treasurer to the Board was deferred as the nominated candidate was unable to take up the post. The Board was informed that there was no other candidate at present, and the item would be revisited at a later meeting.

Discussion on Biodiversity and Cemetery Management

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by Charlie Alpera on biodiversity and cemetery management. Alpera highlighted the importance of public land for biodiversity, given the ongoing nature depletion in Europe. Concerns were raised about the environmental impact of plastic flowers and the use of cement in bearer beams ¹, which contribute to carbon emissions. Alpera suggested alternatives such as natural planting and the removal of bearer beams to create more natural burial areas, which could also be financially beneficial. The discussion also touched upon the potential for the cemetery to be designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)² and the need for a more joined-up approach to green space management across Merton, Sutton, and Kingston.

The Board also discussed the management of the cemetery grounds, including the ongoing maintenance of seasonal bedding, arboricultural inspections, and infrastructure works on vehicle and pedestrian paths. The progress of the Heritage Lottery Fund application for improvements to the Garth Road perimeter was noted, with a decision on the funding expected in mid-July. The success of the tea room at the cemetery, run by Agatha Mary Akyigyina OBE and her family, was also highlighted.

A concern was raised by Councillor Jason Stone regarding families being charged for the removal of edging from lawn graves, causing distress during periods of grief. Officers explained the process of grave purchases and the information provided to families, but committed to investigating specific cases.

The Board also discussed the possibility of holding a third meeting in November to review the mobilisation of the new grounds maintenance contract and the transition to a new contractor. While some members expressed reservations about a November meeting due to potential weather conditions, the idea of a site visit to the cemetery was favoured. It was agreed that the date of 17 November would be provisionally held for a site visit, with attendees to be updated on whether it would be a meeting or a visit.