INTREC were engaged by Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries NSW (SMCNSW), to provide Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) services for the refurbishment, remediation and upgrading works of the Chapel and Crematorium Building at the Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park (ESMP) in Matraville and the Chapel Building at Woronora Memorial Park (WMP) in Sutherland. The ECI Services were later converted to a Design & Construct contract for the delivery of the project.

ESMP is a heritage-listed facility that has been in operation since 1893 and the crematorium was opened in 1938. WMP was established in 1895 and the first cremation in the heritage-listed facility occurred in 1934. INTREC were working with SMCNSW and the design consultants to deliver the heritage restoration of the buildings and modernise the building services to improve the user experience.

The scope of works included the establishment of temporary Chapel facilities, at each location, to be utilised whilst the existing Chapels Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park, Matraville NSW 2036 & Woronora Memorial Park, Sutherland NSW 2232 Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries NSW Refurbishment, Remediation and Upgrade Works were under construction. Works at ESMP and WMP included extensive heritage remediation works and hazmat removal, alongside the refurbishment of the chapels and administration offices.

There were also upgrades to the existing infrastructure and services, including the installation of new communications, security and AV systems, user group facilities, air conditioning, electrical upgrades and a new solar PV system. Works also involved creating new compliant access ways, including a DDA platform lift and new roads and entryways through the porticos.

ESMP is located in a coastal environment, therefore the project required consideration of the building materials and construction techniques that are appropriate for the refurbishment of a heritage building and a new building in close proximity to the ocean.

The project was also carried out in a live environment, which meant careful consideration and mitigation of any potential impact on daily operations.