Swindon’s Railway Village will become rooted in The Queen’s history this weekend when it hosts a special celebration.
To celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, 41 new cherry and rowan trees will be planted with the help of volunteers from across the town on Saturday March 12th from 10am.
There will also be a number of special guests at the event including South Swindon MP Sir Robert Buckland and a representative of the royal family in the form of the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Mrs Sarah Rose Troughton.
Training will be given to volunteers who need it and the Council will be able to provide tools – but people are welcome to bring their own.
Councillor Robert Jandy, Swindon Borough Council‘s Cabinet Member for Culture, Heritage, Leisure and Town Centre Experience, said: “I’m very pleased to be part of this tree planting event, I can’t wait to get my hands dirty!
“To see so many trees planted in the urban centre of the town is excellent and will really help brighten up the area in the summer for the Platinum Jubilee.
“The inclusion of more trees and greenery in the area cannot be understated either. While it’s only small, every little difference can help in the battle against climate change.”
Mrs Sarah Rose Troughton, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, added: “I am absolutely delighted that Swindon Borough Council is planting lots of pretty blossom trees in the gardens of the Railway Village on 12th March supporting The Queen’s Green Canopy.
“Do come along and join us as this important initiative gains momentum and illustrates the town’s great affection for Her Majesty in her Platinum Jubilee year.”
The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative was set up for the jubilee to encourage people to make sure the celebrations have a lasting, positive impact on the environment.
The Railway Village is a site of significance for the town’s iconic railway heritage being within walking distance of the Health Hydro, STEAM Museum and Brunel’s former Carriage Works. It is currently receiving funding and support from Historic England who have declared it a Heritage Action Zone and who are working with the Council and other partners on a five year plan to revitalise the area.
Tree planting at the Railway Village and across Swindon also forms part of Swindon’s Be the Change campaign which aims to encourage residents, landowners and businesses to do more in the fight against climate change. To read more visit www.swindon.gov.uk/bethechange
