A commemorative tree has been planted at Bath’s showpiece Holburne Park housing development by children from a nearby school as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
BECT, the building contractor overseeing construction of the 200-plus home scheme, invited the youngsters from Bathwick St. Mary Church School to plant the oak tree as part of the development’s commitment to the local community.
Two years ago Holburne Park’s Bristol-based developer Hardrock donated £1,500 for new play equipment at the school as it prepared to reopen following the first Covid-related lockdown.
The site of the oak tree overlooks the Kennet and Avon Canal with views across Bath beyond. Set within parkland, Holburne Park is being developed over a number of phases.
When completed it will include properties ranging from four-bedroom homes – which are now on sale – to a mix of one-bedroom apartments up to five/six-bedroom houses.
The scheme, which is within walking distance of Bath city centre, is designed in keeping with the character of Bath’s architecture.
BECT operations director Jonathan Matthews said: “We’ve been working with the local community in and around Holburne Park throughout the construction process and we were delighted to welcome pupils from Bathwick St Mary Church School to plant this special tree.
“The green spaces at Holburne Park are an important part of the development and we hope the new oak will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for years to come.”
Vicky Dudbridge, director at Holburne Park sales agents Savills, added: “Part of Holburne Park’s appeal is its ideal location for families and this is a great opportunity to strengthen ties with the excellent school on our doorstep.
“The oak will be a lasting legacy that not only commemorates the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee but will enhance the landscape here for generations.”
Bathwick St. Mary Church School headteacher Kevin Purkiss said, along with events and celebrations in school to commemorate Platinum Jubilee, the school’s councillors were delighted to be invited to plant the tree for The Queen’s Green Canopy – the special project inviting people around the UK to plant a tree to mark the Jubilee.
“Our children will be able to return to the oak for years to come and remember the part they played in this historic occasion,” he added.
Pictured, top: Bathwick St. Mary Church School pupils with a plaque commemorating the oak tree they planted at Holburne Park.
Bottom: Back row, from left, BECT customer care manager Ali Gatehouse and operations director Jonathan Matthews with Bathwick St. Mary Church School headteacher Kevin Purkiss and pupils
