2020 has been, and continues to be, a very different and challenging year for everyone. The strength of public services, innovation from businesses and the spirits of millions have been truly tested. Some have experienced real hardship and others have seen friends and family suffer during the coronavirus pandemic. Our ambition is to collectively create a natural space that everyone who has been affected by the pandemic can use for reflection and relaxation. Though there have been tough times, this year has provided the opportunity for community spirit to thrive with many people, groups and organisations embarking on activities and projects to protect and serve communities. Leicestershire County Council and Leicester City Council are proud to be working together, liaising with volunteers and the parks rangers to plan and deliver this project – but we need the support of you too – our community.

What we'll deliver:

• We hope the project will continue to grow as time goes on. The first phase will include:
• November – launch crowdfunding campaign!
• December – plant the first tree as part of National Tree Week
• January - reach crowdfunding target
• February – plant trees and install benches
• March – install interpretation panels
• March – plant final trees of this phase
• Review future phases to expand to include more trees, benches, and additional features like sculptures and plaques

Why it's a great idea:

Watermead Memorial Walk will enable local residents, businesses and authorities to come together and contribute to something that gives us space to reflect and remember the coronavirus pandemic of 2020, but which also symbolises collaborative working and shared experience. Our hope is that the walk, which will consist of beautiful trees and crafted benches, will benefit the environment and the emotional wellbeing of visitors. Donating to this project gives the public the opportunity to add a personal connection to an environmentally conscious project that will continue to serve in memory of 2020 - the year we did everything possible to protect family and friends. Leicestershire County Council and Leicester City Council have pledged maintenance costs and now we’re asking the public to get involved. Whether in memory, in dedication or just an act of generosity, it will help us reach our target and deliver something while we’re apart that we hope one day soon we can enjoy together.

Steps to get it done:

• November - January: run the crowdfunding campaign
• February - March: plant trees, install benches, plaques and interpretation boards
• March: complete first phase of Watermead Memorial Walk

The project will be phased in hope that it will continue to grow as time goes on. The first phase of the project will include the planting of 58 trees, 16 benches and the development of two interpretation boards which will be installed at the beginning and the end of the walk. Future phases could see the walk expanded to include more trees, benches, and additional features like sculptures and plaques.