Wigan Council

03/23/2023 | News release | Distributed by Public on 03/23/2023 05:21

Designs unveiled for Wigan Borough's Covid-19 remembrance sites

Outline plans for Wigan Borough's Covid-19 places of reflection have been unveiled.

The Wigan Council initiative will see two sites established in Wigan's Mesnes Playing Field and Leigh's Lilford Park.

This week marks the third anniversary of the initial lockdown on March 23 and works will be scheduled for the new sites to be ready to host services this time next year.

Announced in 2021, the local authority held a consultation on the proposals to ensure residents have dedicated places to acknowledge the sacrifices and contributions made during the pandemic and remember those who are no longer with us.

Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux MBE, said: "This is an important project for all of us and we remain grateful to those who contributed to the consultation.

"The desire to have opportunities for quiet reflection, incorporating our collective experiences through the pandemic came through loud and clear.

"We are starting to see the plans taking shape with these designs, which have been informed by the feedback, and we hope that works can start very soon.

"There will be further opportunities to influence certain elements of the designs later this year and we would encourage as many people as possible to take part."

The designs include accessible memorial areas encircled by landscaping features and floral displays, along with rainbow-style seating areas that will include inspirational wording and reflections.

There will also be spaces for visitors to leave messages and memory 'keepsakes'.

Funding for the project has been provided by Wigan Council along with contributions from section 106 developer proceeds and the borough's UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation.

In 2021, Wigan Council unveiled stars on Believe Square in Wigan and outside Leigh Town Hall honouring the contributions of NHS, health and social care staff and key-workers during the pandemic.

To view the designs and for more information, visit: Remember, reflect, recover - Wigan Borough COVID-19 memorial.

Posted on Thursday 23rd March 2023