Memorial arboretum to Covid victims planned
A memorial arboretum to remember people who have died during the pandemic will be created by Telford & Wrekin Council.
The authority said it had not yet finalised the location for the arboretum, which will also pay tribute to the efforts of key workers.
More than 120,000 people in the UK have lost their lives to the virus since the outbreak of the pandemic, and 241 have died in Telford and Wrekin.
Councillor Carolyn Healy, the council's cabinet member for the natural environment, said: “The idea of planting trees to commemorate all those affected by the pandemic and to say thanks to key workers is something we very much want to do.
“Nature has been one positive outlet for us all over the last 12 months. People often talk to me about how glad they are to live in such a beautiful part of the country, even more so during lockdowns. As trees are a symbol of enduring strength and can weather the toughest of storms, it feels fitting to create a memorial arboretum.”
The council said it would now ask people across the borough where it should be.
Councillor Healy added: “We want to create somewhere that gives us a place to grieve and pay tribute to the work and dedication of key workers including NHS staff and care workers. There are many ways we can do this, we could look at Crowdfunding, sponsorship or offer people the opportunity to dedicate a tree that will celebrate or commemorate loved ones.
“Our hope is that the arboretum will bring comfort and hope by just being there, and so it is important that we work together to get this right.”
It comes as the chair of the Interfaith Council, Councillor Raj Mehta, has taken inspiration from the idea and planted a Liquidambar tree in Telford Town Park.
The tree has been placed as a tribute to all communities from all faiths who have been impacted by Covid-19.
The tree has been planted on the grassy area between the play areas and Malinslee steps.
Councillor Mehta said: “The Interfaith Council is working with Telford & Wrekin Council and health partners to do all we can to raise awareness and support our local communities.
“I wanted to plant this tree now to commemorate those affected and give hope that we will get through this.”
