Published: Wednesday 04th September 2024 | 12.59pm
The Council and developers have worked with a family in Rugeley to relocate a memorial tree following planning approval for housing.
A cherry tree was planted at the former Aelfgar School site in Rugeley for Stacey Wilshaw, who attended Lichfield Music Centre there and tragically passed away in 2000.
Aelfgar School was closed in August 2011 and the land was purchased by Cannock Chase Council for development.
Planning permission was given for 29 council homes and 29 open market homes in June this year. National house developer, Lovell Partnership Ltd has been working with the parents of the late Stacey Wilshaw to decide the best action for the memorial tree planted for their daughter.
It has been agreed that the tree will be removed from the Aelfgar site and relocated to Etching Hill Primary School site, where Stacey’s mother works.
Mr Wilshaw, Stacey’s father said “The cherry tree was planted as a memorial for Stacey who passed away in 2000. I am pleased that the tree will be moved to Etching Hill Primary School, where it is accessible to family and friends. It’s nice that another cherry tree will also be planted on the new development. The developers and the Council have been very understanding about the situation and have dealt with it with great sensitivity. The Aelfgar School site has been left unused for many years now so it’s good that it is being developed for much needed Council homes.”
Councillor Sue Thornley Portfolio Leader for Housing and Corporate Assets said “I am pleased that we have been able to find a solution for the memorial tree with the family of Stacey. This site has been derelict for a number of years so to bring it back into much needed housing will benefit the residents in the district. Any trees that will need to be removed for this development will be replaced.”
Simon Wingate, regional partnerships director at Lovell, said: “Having a positive impact on the communities in which we build is essential and working closely with the Wilshaw family has been a priority from the outset of this project. Reaching a decision the family is happy with and that we can deliver to protect the tree is a fantastic outcome. We’re looking forward to bringing this site to fruition and creating a development that benefits the community.”
Work is set to commence on site this October.