The gateway to the National Memorial Arboretum is to be improved ahead of Remembrance Sunday,
The A513 leading up to the landmark in Alrewas will be spruced up to coincide with the commemorations on Sunday, November 11.
Work will include removing the current lay-bys and kerbing, sowing grass, cutting the verges and trimming trees and hedges. The improvements will also involve a major overhaul of the current traffic island at the end of Barley Green Lane.
Marlborough Fund Managers an investment management company with an office near Lichfield will be sponsoring part of the works on the island, including the planting of various shrubs and plants. Staffordshire Highways’ team will then be replacing the current block paved chevrons surrounding the island with new ones.
Mike Maryon, Staffordshire County Council’s Highways Chief, said: “The National Memorial Arboretum is one of the country’s most treasured attractions and a jewel in Staffordshire’s crown.
“It is at the heart of our collective sense of identity and is a symbol of remembrance for the sacrifices that past and present generations make to protect our freedom.
“Remembrance Sunday will see thousands of visitors to the site and these improvements will provide an added delight to welcome people as they arrive.
“We have been working closely with the National Memorial Arboretum, local councillor Janet England, Lichfield District Council and Marlborough Fund Managers to ensure the work is completed in time for the commemorations.
“The site now attracts 300,000 visitors a year, pulling in visitors from across the country and the world. We are very proud that Staffordshire is a focus for the nation’s pride and the National Memorial Arboretum provides a marvelous gateway to the county.”