St Bartholomew’s Cemetery Extension

This project responds to the cemetery expansion needs and council’s landfill objectives, as well as the community request for activation of St Bartholomew’s Church and Cemetery. The design establishes a significant gateway element to Blacktown and the new expansion seamlessly integrates with the existing cemetery. Heritage was also a key consideration, respecting the important heritage context of the site with state and local significance. The project delivers an accessible and functional cemetery, designed to integrate smoothly with future expansion phases.

The character of the existing burials within St Bartholomew’s Cemetery consists predominantly of monumental graves and some above ground vaults, kerbstones, and cast-iron fences, defining the graves around the Church. The intention of the new burial areas has considered the alignment of the existing cemetery, particularly for the alignment of the new access road, whilst identifying the new burials for the heritage areas. Diverse cultural burial approaches and memorialisation are catered for in the Cemetery layout. This reflects Blacktown’s culturally diverse population.

Blacktown's St Bartholomew's Cemetery reflects the area's rich Aboriginal heritage. From its establishment, the cemetery has been also a burial site for the Darug people, including notable figures like Maria Lock, a woman of the Boorooberongal Clan. Unmarked Aboriginal graves are also respectfully incorporated, acknowledging the enduring presence of Aboriginal heritage in Blacktown.