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Memorials in parks

Many of our parks provide the opportunity to place a memorial for a loved one.

Benches are the more traditional approach. Our formal parks have their own bench styles, some are full wooden style, others are cast iron ends and others are a more informal fully recycled plastic bench. Prices start at £1000 plus VAT (there is an additional charge of £100 for a plaque). There are a number of additional extras that can be added to a bench which will be reflected in the price.

  • Supply of 1 x quality, heavy duty bench (site specified)
  • Complete with bolt down straps and fixing anti-tamper bolts
  • Stainless steel plaque
  • Includes all fixing and installation
  • Excludes on-going liability for maintenance and repairs

Memorial trees

Memorial trees are often a popular option. Tree planting is done during Autumn and Winter (October until March) and not all sites can accommodate a tree.

Tree donations are arranged at the end of the year. Some sites have specific tree varieties which will be discussed before an order is made. We regret that we are unable to provide a memorial plaque for trees planted. The cost is approx. £400 plus VAT.

  • Supply of 1 standard quality tree
  • Tree guards, stakes and ties are provided
  • Installation
  • Excludes on-going liability for maintenance and repairs

Many of our parks and open spaces can accommodate more bulbs or even wildflower beds as well as perennial planting schemes. Donations can be made to provide ongoing seasonal interest to these areas.

Any donations made will be noted for specified areas but cannot always be provided in specific sites.

Please email parks@cheshireeast.gov.uk with your enquiry

More information about memorials in parks

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Once a location has been identified we will raise an invoice for the bench. Upon payment of the invoice an order will be raised with the supplier and you will be informed of any expected delivery times.

Our suppliers are currently stating anywhere between 5-20 weeks delivery dependant on the style of bench and the parts required.

Once an order has been raised for the bench the details are required. The supplier will then send a proof to us for you to confirm before the engraving is started.

Some cast iron benches offer the space to provide a date plate on either end of the bench. There is in some instances the opportunity to have a larger plaque installed, the standard holds 200 characters.

This is dependant on the site the bench is to be located. Many of our formal parks will have a uniform approach throughout the park.

Unfortunately we cannot offer the service to provide any on-going maintenance and repairs to the benches installed in our parks and open spaces. We are sometimes able to remove graffiti and there are occasions when we have volunteers or friends group who will maintain some of the benches in our parks.

With the benches being installed in public open spaces there is a requirement for a heavy duty quality bench to be put in place with secure ground fixings.

We try to keep tree planting to native varieties in a lot of our parks and open spaces. Some parks will accommodate non-native varieties but trees are usually chosen to suit their surroundings, ground conditions and the local habitats.

Quite often plaques at ground level will be vandalised or removed, we do try to avoid mowing around trees and the plaques can often be lost in the long grass below trees.

We will try and keep donors up to date on any particular projects where bulb, seed and perennial planting will be taking place. There may be a particular project for a set time of year and if your donation happens after this particular time of year we may need to wait until the next planting season.

You must find out who owns the land and seek their permission before you scatter ashes.

How to scatter ashes

Here are some tips on how to scatter ashes, following UK regulations and environmental guidance.

  • Use an ashes scattering container, known as a "scatter tube" to help you scatter the ashes.
  • Scatter in a secluded area, ideally away from other people and avoiding the main pathways.
  • Be aware of the environment - avoid areas of special conservation and try not to disturb the ground.
  • Try to avoid busy periods such as Bank Holidays.
  • Try to avoid windy days.
  • Avoid scattering ashes on land where animals are grazing.
  • Memorials such as benches, plaques or plants should not be placed unless permission has been granted by the land owner.

Page last reviewed: 29 March 2025