National Memorial Arboretum, NMA Staffordshire, Alrewas building design by Glenn Howells Architects, English project

National Memorial Arboretum, England : NMA Alrewas

Planning approval for new Centre of Remembrance at National Memorial Arboretum

This design by Glenn Howells Architects has now gained planning.

image : Glenn Howells Architects

7 September 2012

National Memorial Arboretum England

The Staffordshire arboretum put forward the proposals to Lichfield District Council after a public consultation.

The scheme includes building a pavilion for special events and a Remembrance and Learning Centre for visitors and it is hoped it will by built in two years. Funding is around the half way mark for the building.

24 Oct 2011

National Memorial Arboretum News

Couch Perry & Wilkes appointed to design new Centre of Remembrance at National Memorial Arboretum

The planned world-class Centre of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) is to boast a range of advanced environmental features, following the appointment of Couch Perry & Wilkes (CPW), to the new-build project.

The leading environmental services consultancy was awarded the prestigious contract by the National Memorial Arboretum charity after demonstrating an innovative approach to sustainable building design, including renewable solutions.

CPW now has responsibility for the full M&E building design, from feasibility through to completion, at the new Centre of Remembrance which will be built in the Arboretum’s 150 acre site in Alrewas, Staffordshire.

CPW Director, Wayne Eustace, said: “We are very excited to be part of this incredibly important building project, which will provide world-class facilities.

The NMA launched an appeal in April to raise funds for the new building, which will include a Veterans Pavilion and Heroes Square. HRH Prince William is patron of the appeal.

The National Memorial Arboretum charity, which is part of the Royal British Legion family, hopes the new venue will provide a place for its 300,000 visitors to hold functions and special events. Plus for the 200 military units, ex-Service groups and any other interested parties.

It will also provide educational facilities for schools who come from across the UK to visit the arboretum.

Work on the building is expected to start in 2012 and be completed by 2014.

The Arboretum opened in 2001 and has planted more than 50,000 trees. It is home to 200 memorials, including the iconic Armed Forces Memorial, which is a tribute to the 16,000 Service personnel who have died on duty, or as a result of terrorism, since the end of the Second World War. In March 2010 the Basra Memorial Wall was unveiled there.

27 Nov 2009

National Memorial Arboretum Staffordshire

Glenn Howells Architects appointed on National Memorial Arboretum

Glenn Howells Architects has been appointed as the lead team to remodel one of the most important recognitions of sacrifice in the country, The NMA in Alrewas in Staffordshire.

images : Glenn Howells Architects

The commission will transform the 150 acre site into a world-class Centre for Remembrance. The ?8m redevelopment will include an Armed Forces Pavilion, ‘Heroes Square’, Exhibition Space and Education Centre. In addition, the retail, catering and office facilities will be upgraded. Glenn Howells Architects will redesign the surrounding landscape to unite the existing and new buildings.

Glenn Howells, director, Glenn Howells Architects commented: “We are very pleased to have been appointed to work on this exciting and important next phase of the National Memorial Arboretum. This British institution has, in the short period, since it was established created an impressive development and landscape. We are looking forward to building upon this ambitious vision to create a world class centre for remembrance and exceptional experience for visitors.”

Charlie Bagot Jewitt, Chief Executive, NMA said:
“Glenn Howells brief was to design a scheme which not only accommodates the vastly increased visitor numbers but that is also a fitting tribute to those that have given their lives in the service of their country. The team have created building and event space which we believe will inspire all that pass through our doors and add greatly to the experience of a visit.”

New Alrewas building design : Glenn Howells Architects, an architecture practice based in Bimringham, West Midlands, UK.

National Memorial Arboretum England image / information from Glenn Howells Architects

Location: Alrewas, Staffordshire, northwest England, United Kingdom.

National Memorial Arboretum

This centrally-located building is home to the striking Armed Forces Memorial, comprises 150 acres of trees and memorials devoted to the theme of remembrance. It is free to enter and situated near Lichfield and within the National Forest in Staffordshire.

The Arboretum, which has seen the planting of 50,000 trees, was established in 1997 on former sand and gravel workings restored by Lafarge and leased to the Arboretum on a peppercorn rent. It is part of The Royal British Legion family and receives assistance from the Ministry of Defence.