Ashington Memorial Garden Enhanced as Part of Town's Regeneration Ahead of Remembrance Sunday
Ashington Town Council is delighted to formally share the completion of significant enhancement works to Ashington Memorial Garden, in time for this year's Remembrance Sunday on 9th November and Armistice Day on 11th November.
The cherished memorial space, leased and maintained by Ashington Town Council, has been thoughtfully upgraded as part of the £36m Regenerating Ashington Programme – an ambitious initiative to grow, renew and connect the town. With the reopening of the nearby Ashington Train Station, new car park, and Wansbeck Square Gateway development, these improvements bring the Memorial Garden into the heart of the town's evolving public realm.
The enhancement works were made possible through funding from the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the North East Combined Authority, with the North East Combined Authority acting as lead authority. The project was delivered by Northumberland County Council as part of a series of regeneration projects across Ashington. More information on all projects can be found on the dedicated website. nland.uk/arp
Specialist contractors Brambledown undertook a comprehensive programme of improvements to the Memorial Garden. The works included the installation of high-quality paving and granite kerbing, and the creation of attractive woodland planting to enhance the peaceful setting.
In a touching tribute to the site's heritage, Ashington Town Council's own Mark Air lovingly restored the memorial garden's aging commemorative seats, working closely with the Ashington Branch of the Royal British Legion who were keen to preserve rather than replace these meaningful features. The restored seats now feature a smart black finish that complements the garden's enhanced appearance.
The Town Council's commitment to the space continues as come springtime, Ryan Appleby will work to enhance the entrance bed with his horticultural expertise, creating a more inviting and vibrant welcome to this treasured community space.
"This Memorial Garden has always been well-maintained and holds a special place in the hearts of Ashington residents," said Cllr Mark Purvis, Chair of Ashington Town Council. "These enhancements ensure it takes its rightful place within the town's regenerated public realm. While it serves as a focal point for our National days of Remembrance, it's just as important as a place for personal reflection throughout the year."
Cllr Richard Wearmouth, NCC Cabinet Member for Business, Growth and Regeneration, said: "I'm incredibly proud to see the changes made to the area ready in time for this weekend's Remembrance events and for future use throughout the year."
Cllr Caroline Ball, County and Town Councillor for Ashington Central said, "As a County and Town Councillor for the ward, I'm delighted to see this project come to fruition as part of Ashington's wider regeneration. It's a testament to what can be achieved through partnership working and investment in our town. As a Town Council, we remain deeply committed to honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. From our recent projection installations across the town to our support for Ashington Cricket Club's memorial tree project this summer, we continue to find meaningful ways to remember the fallen. The enhanced Memorial Garden ensures we have a fitting space for Remembrance, not just on national commemoration days, but every day of the year."
The enhanced Ashington Memorial Garden stands as a testament to the community's respect for those who served and celebrates Ashington's exciting transformation as a connected, vibrant town centre.
Residents and visitors are warmly invited to visit the garden this Remembrance weekend and throughout the year.
Photo credit: Roy Smith - Ashington Camera Club
