National Memorial Arboretum
The Queen during a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum
The Queen during a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum

Staffordshire County Council says it remains committed to developing the National Memorial Arboretum into a globally recognised centre for remembrance.

The Alrewas site was created 20 years ago on 150 acres of former quarry land.

It has since gone on to house more than 330 memorials and has been hosted 14 royal visits in the last two years alone.

A new £15.7million Remembrance Centre is due to be officially opened later this month, and Cllr Philip Atkins, leader of Staffordshire County Council – which provided £3million towards the project – said: “We are incredibly proud to have the National Memorial Arboretum here in the heart of the country.

Heroes Square at the National Memorial Arboretum
Heroes Square at the National Memorial Arboretum

“This is an investment in the county’s national and international reputation with the goal of making the attraction a world class centre of remembrance.

“It’s hard to believe that it is 20 years since the first trees were planted and we are sure the site will continue to be a symbolic place to learn, remember and commemorate.

“We look forward to welcoming many more visitors to the site.”

Forty new memorials are planned, including ones to the British Victims of Overseas Terrorism and a National Police Memorial. A purpose-built pavilion to host remembrance events is also planned.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.