Press Release

Opening of Queen's Copse and Platinum Copse

14 June 2023

Platinum Jubilee sponsored tree planting areas officially opened

Fareham Borough Council is pleased to announce that two areas of sponsored tree planting in commemoration of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee were officially opened on Saturday 10 June.

Queen's Copse and Platinum Copse, both situated within Abbey Meadows, Titchfield, comprise a variety of trees sponsored by Fareham residents, organisations, businesses, community groups and clubs, either for themselves or in memory of a loved one.

Tree planting began last year, and sponsors were invited to join the official opening of the areas and to see their trees for the first time. Queen’s Copse was opened by the Leader of Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Seán Woodward, while Platinum Copse was opened by the Mayor and Mayoress of Fareham, Cllr Fred Birkett and Mrs Lisa Birkett. While both copses will remain closed to the public to ensure the trees are protected, an open day will take place each May at both locations where sponsors will be able to visit their trees.

Executive Member for Streetscene at Fareham Borough Council, Councillor Ian Bastable, said:

“Both Queen’s Copse and Platinum Copse are a lasting tribute to the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, providing protected and secluded areas to encourage biodiversity, which will become established areas of natural beauty over the years to come. I would like to thank everyone who has supported this programme to date and encourage Fareham residents to sponsor the last remaining trees.”

Platinum Copse has some limited spaces available for further tree planting, and potential sponsors are invited to select from a variety of tree species including:

•   Hazel
•   Aspen
•   Hornbeam
•   Field Maple
•   Hawthorn
•   Small-leaved Lime
•   Crab Apple

Price options range from £50 to £250, and trees will be planted in the next planting season later in 2023. For more information or to sponsor a tree contact leisure@fareham.gov.uk.

Further details about Queen’s Copse and Platinum Copse can be found on the Council’s website: https://www.fareham.gov.uk/leisure/queensjubilee.aspx.

ENDS