Work has begun on the redevelopment of Bushey cemetery.

The final designs for the United Synagogue burial site have been unveiled by architects Waugh Thistleton. The cemetery's main ceremonial space will be created from rammed earth, an ancient and sustainable building technique that uses a natural locally sourced raw material.

Waugh Thistleton's Andrew Waugh said: "This is a special building and we believe the rammed earth technique enhances the spiritual nature of the religious building, as the materials are biodegradable, and will one day return to the earth from which they came."

Peter Zinkin, chair of the US property committee, said: "We are excited about this development which promises to deliver us a modern cemetery which should be aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly."

The development received planning approval from Hertsmere Council in 2013; completion is scheduled for 2017.