About The CDS Group

Cemetery Development Services Ltd (CDS) was founded in 2003 but its historical association with the cemetery industry dates back to 1999 when its founder, Justin Smith, undertook some of the first Environment Agency Groundwater Risk Assessments introduced for new developments.

Over the last 16 years, CDS has undertaken in excess of 400 feasibility studies and designed and built over 40 new cemeteries both in the UK and overseas. As a result of the success and reputation in the cemetery market, CDS has expanded into designing and developing new crematoria sites for both private companies and local authorities; with many new sites currently under construction and many more at various stages of feasibility, design and planning.

Our Team

Becky undertakes all of the cemetery and crematorium planning applications on behalf of our clients, with over a 95% success rate achieved on applications managed by CDS. Becky also undertakes all co-ordination of the in-house delivery teams and external consultants to ensure a seamless delivery process, whereby all parties are in total connection to each other’s needs through a centrally co-ordinated system managed by Becky.
Becky Ballinger
Becky Ballinger
Managing Director
Callum has recently joined CDS as a Senior Engineer with over 10 years experience in the Site Investigation industry, undertaking a wide range of contaminated land and geotechnical assessments on various sites including residential developments, commercial properties, and brownfield land. Callum has a vast array of experience in the organisation of both small- and large-scale site investigation works and has a background in waste classification work. Callum's experience will expand the service offering to our clients.
Callum Ward
Callum Ward
Principal Engineer / ES Team Manager
Paul, Dip Des DIT, is experienced in producing 2D and 3D AutoCAD drawings for various disciplines of the company. He works closely with the Landscape Architect and environment team to produce master plans for planning, site layouts and drainage management schemes.
Paul Carvill
Paul Carvill
CAD Designer
Ben, having graduated with a 1st Class BSc (Hons) Degree from Coventry University, has over 2 years of experience with CDS. Ben has completed many Feasibility and Need Assessments for successful crematorium & cemetery applications. Ben is affiliated with the Royal Town Planning Institute, he has a critical understanding of the planning process. One of Ben's main responsibilities is CDS’s 'Green Agenda', he was the author of "A comparison of gas and electric cremator emissions in the UK", being used by key decision makers in the industry.
Ben Copeland
Ben Copeland
Senior Planning Projects Manager
Emma became part of CDS in 2021 as the Office Manager, where she plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless daily operations. Her responsibilities include office processes, coordinating meetings and overseeing invoicing. Most importantly, Emma serves as the primary liaison between our clients and project teams, ensuring clear communication and timely, effective client management. Her dedication ensures that every client receives exceptional service and support throughout their engagement with us.
Emma Fediw
Emma Fediw
Officer Manager
Leanne joined CDS as Finance Manager in February 2022 following five years at a well known regional accounting practice. Leanne is AAT registered and is currently working towards her ACCA qualification. Leanne plays a key role within CDS, efficiently and accurately overseeing the financial management of the business as well as having a hands on approach to the day to day business operations.
Leanne Wilson
Leanne Wilson
Finance Manager
Adam graduated from Coventry University with a 2:1 Ba (Hons) in Geography. Adam joined CDS after 18 months in the public sector where he worked with partners to deliver a review of the Safer Lincolnshire Partnership and focussed on improving sustainability in the sector for years to come. Adam has joined the growing Planning Team at CDS and will be assisting with feasibility and planning including the refurbishment of existing crematoria and the green alternatives to traditional methods of cremation.
Adam Muspratt
Adam Muspratt
Assistant Planner
Dave has recently joined the CDS team as a Technical Engineer, although new to the field of ES work with only 2 years’ experience he brings with him a wide knowledge of hands-on technical machinery and geotechnical assessments on various sites including residential developments, commercial properties, and brownfield land. Dave comes from a military background and brings with him the ability to organise sites and workers to obtain their best results- ensuring a high standard of work is maintained. He is a very practical and hands on individual.
Dave Rye
Dave Rye
Technical Engineer
Eliot, BSc (Hons), graduated from Loughborough University with an BSc in Geography in 2013. He joined CDS in 2023 following four years as a planner at two well-known fast-food brands where he identified target areas for new openings and put together cases for new stores in both the UK and ROI. He also supported change of use planning applications where required. Prior to this Eliot worked at a Town Planning Consultancy as a GIS Analyst for 4 years. It was here where he developed his passion for planning.
Eliot Winter
Eliot Winter
Assistant Planner
Gina, CMLI, has been a Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute since 2004 having completed a Biology & Geography Degree at Exeter University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Landscape Architecture. With over 25 years’ experience working for private practice, local large-scale contractors and a local planning authority Gina has a wide range of experience. Design work has included hard and soft landscaping, new schools, play areas, sports pitches, urban developments, roof gardens, large scale housing developments, cemeteries and LVIA’s.
Gina Devonshire
Gina Devonshire
Landscape Design Lead
Lettie joined CDS as head of HR to keep all staff in-line, provide encouragement and to ensure all staff ate the correct food and enjoyed a daily walk whatever the weather.
Lettie
Lettie
Head of HR

Our Clients

Wokingham Borough Council
East Cambs DC
Hambleton District Council
Coventry City Council
High Peak Borough Council
Derby City Council
Wycombe District Council
London Borough of Croydon
Buntingford TC
Basildon Borough Council
Charnwood
Bristol City Council
London Borough Islington Camden
Powys County Council
Blackpool Council
Flitwick TC
Huntingdon TC
East Riding of Yorkshire Council
South Wales Sports Grounds
Banbury TC

Our Accreditations

Acclaim SSIP Accreditation
AGS
FBCA
Construction Line - GoldMembership
Grounds Management Association
Bloom
UKGBC
SC-ISO 9001
ICCM
APSE