A charity has unveiled exciting new plans to revamp a popular park – and enable families to remember lost loved ones through the beauty of nature.
Oakwood Park sits beside the East Lancashire Road, near Irlams o’ th’ Height in Salford.
Charity Life for a Life Memorial Forests has partnered with Salford Council to create a new memorial forest there – described as a meaningful space for remembrance whilst also enhancing the park.
Families and individuals will be offered the opportunity to plant and dedicate memorial trees in memory of their loved ones.
The charity said a carefully chosen mix of Silver Birch, Hazel, Field Maple, Hornbeam and English Oak trees will be planted, contributing to the resilience and biodiversity of the park’s sprawling woodland. As the trees mature, it’s also hoped they will form a thriving habitat for local wildlife.
A flower meadow will also be planted off Swinton Park Road, boosting the park’s appeal and look.
The plans have been revealed
(Image: Life for a Life)
The new project is the charity’s latest collaboration with the council, which began in Clowes Park in 2016.
“The Memorial Forest will provide a peaceful retreat for those experiencing grief, offering a space for reflection and healing amidst the beauty of nature,” said a spokesperson for the charity.
“In addition to the memorial trees, the project will include significant improvements to the woodland area. Dead, diseased, and unsafe trees will be safely removed to promote the health of the forest and ensure the safety of visitors.
“Overgrown footpaths will be cleared, making the area more inviting and accessible for everyone. A vibrant wildflower meadow will also be created, providing a haven for pollinators and adding seasonal bursts of colour.”
Oakwood Park
(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
The charity – founded in 1999 – said it was committed to community involvement.
Local residents will have the chance to participate in activities like seed sowing events, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in the rejuvenated space.
The charity will ensure the ongoing care of the memorial trees and surrounding areas.
Emma Scott, executive director at Life for a Life Memorial Forests, said: “We’re excited to launch a ‘Life for a Life’ Memorial Forest at Oakwood Park.
“This project allows us to provide a meaningful space for remembrance while improving the local environment for all park visitors to enjoy. We are so grateful to Salford City Council for this opportunity to support the community, enhance biodiversity, and ensure the long-term health of the park.”
The charity says it is dedicated to creating ‘living memorials that honour loved ones through the planting of trees’ and now has more than 60 locations in the UK, with associated aims of preserving biodiversity and improving air quality.