Two years since the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the County Council has completed a host of memorial projects to commemorate her life and love of open spaces.
Designed to honour the late Queen’s passion for the outdoors and countryside, these schemes have transformed parks, woodlands, and green spaces across the county.
The initial proposals were developed following feedback from nearly 1,000 residents, and include new woodland walks, extensive tree planting and substantial park improvements.
Completed projects include:
Eastwoods Park, Prudhoe: New circular path improving accessibility, tree planting and seating.
East Cramlington Local Nature Reserve: New circular paths improving accessibility, car park extension and improved drainage.
Valley Park, Cramlington: New footpaths, ponds and dipping platform.
Tyne Green, Hexham: New riverside paths improving accessibility.
Bolam Lake Country Park: New paths and tree planting.
QEII Country Park, Ashington: New circular paths improving accessibility.
Warkworth Beach: Installation of a new picnic area and coastal viewing point.
Queen’s Garden’s, Tweedmouth: New garden entrance feature, seating and railings.
Isabella Heap, Blyth: new path network, wild flower and tree planting, installation of new gates and barriers, installation of pond dipping platform.
A number of other schemes in the county are still underway or in development, including in Alnwick and at Gallagher Park in Bedlington, while interpretation panels at all sites highlighting the work and the reasons behind each project are also being installed as part of the programme.
Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, reflected on the impact of these completed projects.
He said: “Two years on, it is truly heartwarming to see how these memorials have blossomed into spaces that not only honour our late Queen but also serve our communities.
“Many of these projects have involved community volunteers working with Council teams to create serene environments where people can connect with nature and reflect on the legacy of a monarch who cherished and championed the countryside.
“These green spaces will continue to grow and flourish, providing enjoyment and the opportunity to connect with nature for all who visit and are a fitting commemoration to our late Queen.”
An investment of over £370,000 from the County Council has been used to enhance locations up and down the county.