NORTHUMBERLAND County Council has completed work on a string of memorials across the county dedicated to the memory of Queen Elizabeth II.

Designed to honour the late monarch’s love of the outdoors and passion for the countryside, many of the schemes are now completed, two years after her death. The projects have transformed parks, woodlands and green spaces up and down the county.

Some of the changes include new woodland walks, extensive tree planting as well as substantial park improvements. The council has invested a total of £370,000 to enhance the locations, with initial proposals developed following feedback from around 1,000 residents.

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Cllr Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, 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.”

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.

There are still some projects that are still under way in Alnwick and at Gallagher Park in Bedlington. In addition, “interpretation panels” are being installed at all sites to highlight the work that has been carried out as well as the reasons behind each project.