National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire set to reopen to pre-booked visitors
An arboretum in Staffordshire is set to re-open to pre-booked visitors from Monday, it has been announced.
National Memorial Arboretum, in Alrewas, will implement a series of measures to allow visitors to explore the 150-acre site.
People have been asked to book their vehicle online before arriving at the site – with a limited number of spots available.
Philippa Rawlinson, managing director of the National Memorial Arboretum, said: "Although undoubtedly for a much greater good, we were incredibly sad to close to our visitors in March.
"Over the past months the importance and benefits of enjoying green space have been brought to the fore, and I know that many people are as eager to visit our site, as we are to welcome them.
"The introduction of a system requiring visitors to pre-book a visit is as unprecedented as our recent closure; however, it is an essential tool that will allow us to safely manage the number of people on site and we will not be admitting people without a valid booking.
"I hope people will respect and comply with the new procedures we have put in place to protect our visitors and staff while enjoying their visit."
The Armed Forces memorial will be open to a limited number of visitors who can access it through a one-way system.
Hygiene screens – as well as an enhanced cleaning regime – will be introduced with contactless payment options available.
The shop, restaurant, coffee shop, exhibition galleries, chapel, playgrounds and Far East Prisoners of War building will remain closed until further notice.
Scooters and wheelchairs will be unable for hire as well – with visitors encouraged to bring their own.
