COVID Garden of Reflection to Open in St Helier

To mark the first anniversary since lockdown began, Sutton Council in partnership with Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust and Sutton Housing Partnership is announcing plans for a COVID Garden of Reflection on St Helier open space, opposite the hospital. 

The idea for the garden emerged from local residents, Laura Devereux and Maureen Morant as a way to honour those who have sadly passed away over the last year and to celebrate the community spirit and hard work of NHS colleagues that has helped carry Sutton through the pandemic.

Work on creating the garden recently started with the planting of pine, birch and cherry trees. Additional features will be introduced over the next 12 months with further planting taking place from autumn 2021. The garden will officially open in spring 2022 and will include seating, carved sculptures, planted borders and wildflower meadows.

Councillor Trish Fivey, Mayor of Sutton said: 

“We know that it has been a hugely challenging year for everyone, with COVID impacting all aspects of our lives.

“In spite of the difficulties, the response from the community, voluntary and business sector in Sutton has been incredible and there are some truly remarkable and inspirational stories of people going out of their way to help neighbours, friends and family.

“I am delighted that now we will have a Garden of Reflection at St Helier which will serve as an ongoing reminder of what we’ve all been through and that when times are tough, people in Sutton will come together and will support each other”. 

Laura Devereux said: 

“We wanted to create somewhere special where people would have the opportunity to remember those they have lost during the pandemic, when normal rituals and gatherings have not been possible

"At the same time, the garden gives us a space to reflect on the strength of the community and give thanks to the NHS who looked after loved ones when we were not able to be there.  

“The growth of the trees and flowers, gives us hope of new beginnings.”