Services
Memorial Benches & Trees
We are proud to offer parishioners the opportunity to remember loved ones through the installation of memorial benches and the planting of trees within the parish. These memorials provide a lasting tribute while also enhancing the beauty, biodiversity and sustainability of our local green spaces.
Memorial Benches
The Parish Council offers memorial benches in selected locations across the parish where residents and visitors can sit, reflect and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
To ensure long-term durability and environmental responsibility, the council have selected the:
- Peak Commemorative Bench, supplied by TDP Ltd (The Design Partnership),
- Evergreen Seat supplied by Earth Anchors Ltd
These benches are designed for public spaces and offer several benefits:
- Constructed using recycled materials
- Strong and durable for long-term public use
- Low maintenance design
- A style that complements village and countryside settings
- Benches are installed using Earth Anchor fixing systems, allowing them to be securely fitted without large concrete foundations and reducing ground disturbance.
Memorial Trees
As an alternative to benches, parishioners may choose to plant a memorial tree within suitable locations in the parish.
The council prioritises native UK tree species to ensure new trees support local wildlife and contribute positively to the natural environment. Native species provide food and habitat for birds, insects and pollinators while strengthening the resilience of the local landscape.
Typical Costs
The cost of a memorial bench or tree can vary depending on the specific product, plaque wording, and installation requirements. The Parish Council works with trusted UK suppliers to ensure benches are durable, sustainable and suitable for public spaces.
Memorial Bench – Peak Commemorative Bench (TDP Ltd)
Typical costs include:
Bench: £465 – £560
Commemorative plaque or engraving: £45 – £60
Installation and groundwork: £100 – £300
Typical total cost: £650 – £900
Alternative Bench – Evergreen Seat (Earth Anchors)
Typical costs include:
Bench: £890 – £915
Anchor or bolt-down kit: £30 – £110
Commemorative plaque or engraving: £45 – £60
Typical total cost: £1,000 – £1,200
Memorial Trees
Typical costs include:
Native UK tree: £80 – £200
Planting, staking and protection: £50 – £150
Typical total cost: £130 – £350
Costs are indicative and may vary depending on location and installation requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will a memorial bench remain in place?
Memorial benches are intended to remain in place for many years. However, the Parish Council cannot guarantee that a bench will remain indefinitely, as relocation or removal may occasionally be required due to maintenance, safety or land management reasons.
- Can I choose the location of the bench or tree?
Applicants are welcome to suggest a preferred location ideally using a what3words location code. The Parish Council will consider this but must ensure the location is suitable, safe and environmentally appropriate.
- Can I choose the wording on the plaque or engraving for a bench?
Yes. Plaque wording or engraved messages can usually be personalised, however all wording must be approved by the Parish Council before manufacture or installation.
- Can I place a plaque next to a memorial tree?
Small memorial plaques may be permitted at tree locations subject to Parish Council approval and must not damage the tree or surrounding environment.
- Are benches made from sustainable materials?
Yes. The benches selected by the Parish Council are manufactured using recycled materials and are designed for long-term outdoor use with minimal maintenance.
- What types of trees are planted?
The Parish Council prioritises native UK species such as oak, rowan, hawthorn and field maple to support biodiversity and local wildlife.
- What items are not allowed next to a memorial tree?
To protect the natural appearance of parish spaces and local wildlife, stuffed toys, plastic items, artificial flowers or other non-biodegradable objects are not permitted at memorial tree locations.
- Who maintains the memorial bench or tree?
Once installed, benches and trees become the responsibility of the Parish Council for ongoing maintenance.
Enquiries and Applications
If you would like to install a memorial bench or plant a memorial tree, please contact Stokenchurch Parish Council Open Spaces team to discuss available locations, plaque wording and installation arrangements.
Enquiry Email:
Please include:
- Your contact details,
- preferred wording for plaques or engraving,
- If possible a what3words location reference for the proposed site.
A member of the Parish Council Open Spaces team will then be in touch to discuss the next steps.