The Assistant Chief Executive presented the report of the Director of Neighbourhood Services which set out a proposal for a COVID-19 memorial woodland in Arrowe Country Park to mark the loss of 1100 residents to Covid on the Wirral. There is an existing woodland which could be expanded to include this area of quiet reflection with a monument. It should take around five years to become established, during which time appropriate wildflower planting would provide interest. There was also a scheme for other groups to have their own woodland too based on guidance on design and tree species.

Members were keen that NHS staff also be commemorated for their work, and discussed the possibility of allowing sponsoring, although the high failure rate in saplings may make this difficult.  

Resolved

That the proposal for a COVID-19 memorial woodland in Arrowe Country Park be approved.