Temporary mortuary removed but Covid remains a threat.

The temporary mortuary at South Essex Crematorium has been removed as part of the further scaling back of extra facilities that were set up in March, to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic across London.

A decision was made to take it away following a review by London’s Strategic Coordination Group.

Following the removal of the temporary mortuary, car parking in the crematorium grounds is now fully available again.

Visitors to the crematorium and the borough’s cemeteries should still check details before making a trip, as social distancing and other guidelines around Covid-19 remain in place.

It follows further easing of the lockdown in recent weeks with the reopening of businesses, including pubs and restaurants.

However, residents are reminded that the threat of Covid-19 hasn’t gone away in Havering.

While we’re a long way from the rates of new cases being reported in places like Greater Manchester, the number of new cases here has increased too.

Councillor Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:

“While it is welcome news that the temporary mortuary is being removed from South Essex Crematorium, it doesn’t mean we can become complacent.

“The threat of Covid-19 is still very real – there has been a slight increase in the number of cases in Havering over the last four weeks. Nowhere is immune from the possibility of a local or even borough-wide lock down if we let our guard down.

“We all need to do our bit, by wearing face masks or coverings in shops and other enclosed spaces and on public transport. 

“We must keep observing social distancing guidelines, comply with NHS Test and Trace if you suspect you may have the virus and all work together to keep Havering safe.”