The reception house in Hammersmith’s Margravine Cemetery was built to prevent the spread of cholera from bodies that may otherwise have been left on a table in the home.

As the only one of its kind remaining in London, Historic England recommended that the building be given heritage protection due to its architectural interest and rarity.

Ms Crouch said: “This reception house gives us a glimpse into how cholera outbreaks changed Victorian attitudes to burials and public health standards.

“It’s an important part of London’s history and I’m delighted that it will be listed.”

The cemetery building survives in its original condition and the interior remains largely untouched.

Designed in a pentagonal shape, stone slabs were laid on the walls to hold coffins along each of its five sides.

Ruth Savery, secretary of the Friends of Margravine Cemetery, added: “We’re proud to have this fascinating piece of local history in Margravine Cemetery to add to our three listed monuments.

“It’s remarkable how well the reception house has survived and we’re delighted it is gaining this recognition.”

Last month, Historic England granted heritage protection to the site of a First World War munitions factory explosion.