Founded in 1854 and designed by architect William Haywood, the portal features a perpendicular Gothic gabled entrance screen with three arches, triple ogee-canopied niches, and the City of London crest supported by two dragons. Constructed of coursed rubble stone with Caen stone dressings, the portal had suffered extensive deterioration, threatening its historical integrity.

The City of London commissioned London Stone Conservation to undertake critical repair work, including the selective cleaning and restoration of the rubble stone and quoins. The project involved the full replacement of copings and weathering details using Lavoux A Grain stone, a durable alternative to Caen, to improve water-shedding and moisture release capabilities. Conservation and recarving efforts addressed the decay of original carvings, such as the City’s Coat of Arms, which had been compromised by environmental damage and unsuitable repair materials. Nanolime treatments preserved fragile surfaces, while new carvings, including the shield and Muscovy hat, were crafted from Caen Firm B Bed stone.

Mortar repairs were completed using a breathable lime putty mix, and a casein-bound limewash was applied to unify and protect the crest’s appearance. The meticulous stone masonry repairs have halted the cycle of deterioration, preserving this historic portal for future generations while maintaining its functional and aesthetic integrity.

Throughout the project, London Stone Conservation ensured that the portal remained accessible, respecting the needs of the cemetery’s visitors, staff, and funeral services, while delivering expert stonework repairs with precision and care.