New weeping beech tree to be planted at Church Litten later this month

Church Litten will welcome a flurry of activity over the next few weeks as a date for the planting of the new weeping beech tree has been announced.

The new weeping birch is approximately 4m in height with a trunk girth of approximately 21cm and will be protected with a sturdy tree enclosure as it settling into its new home.

Subject to weather conditions and contractor availability, it is set to be planted on Thursday 27 March in what will be an especially exciting start to spring in the town centre.

To mark this significant event, a gathering will be held to welcome the new tree later in the season. Community members are warmly invited to attend and participate in this occasion, which will be advertised nearer the time.

Cuttings from the old weeping beech will be taken by Ventnor Botanic Garden to be used to reinvigorate the next generation of trees to be replanted at a later stage.

Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning, said: "We deeply mourn the loss of our cherished weeping beech, a tree that stood as a silent witness to countless memories and milestones within the Newport community.

“Its presence was more than just part of our landscape; it was a symbol of our history and shared experiences.

“As we plant a new tree later this month, we hope it will grow to become an integral part of our community's fabric, fostering new memories for generations to come.

“Let this new tree stand as a testament to our resilience and our commitment to preserving the essence of Newport's heritage."

Local Newport Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, Cabinet member for economy, regeneration, culture and leisure, said: "It's been heart-breaking to see this magnificent, beautiful tree go and come to terms with the loss.

“Its genetics live on through the grafts and the new tree will grow into the splendour of this species for future generations to enjoy.

“I want to thank that our community for their understanding, Ventnor Botanical Gardens and our parks team at the Isle of Wight Council.”

During the works, there will be no associated road closures or official pathway closures in the park. Disruption to users of the park will also be minimal.

Islanders can still submit their stories and memories of the weeping beech to regeneration@iow.gov.uk, which will be used to create a digital memorial.