New COVID-19 Memorial Garden and Public Artwork launched

A new Covid-19 Memorial Garden and Public Artwork, has been opened to remember Enfield residents who lost their lives or were affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Enfield Council funded garden in Monmouth Road is a permanent memorial and space for reflection.

Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Cohesion at Enfield Council, Cllr Gina Needs, officially opened the garden that was witnessed by local people from the emergency services who worked in the borough during the pandemic, members of local community groups, bereaved residents and Council officers. The opening was also an opportunity to give thanks and to recognise the dedication and tireless work that NHS staff, Council and Voluntary Sector undertook during the pandemic, with staff from North Middlesex University Hospital and other representatives attending the ceremony.

The Create Enfield team commissioned artist Rafael Klein to create a 'sculptural ribbon' for the garden and to incorporate residents' responses and ideas in to the design. The artist delivered a programme of creative workshops and community engagement sessions at Edmonton Green Library, Sunbridge Care Home; and Hazelbury Primary and Kingsmead Schools. Workshop participants were invited to explore their memories and experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic in Enfield and to create words and images to express their thoughts.

The artwork weaves through two sections of the garden and incorporates residents’ creative responses, their memories and experiences of the pandemic; and carries their hopes for future.

To read more about the Covid Memorial Garden, please visit https://www.enfield.gov.uk/news-and-events/2023/08/new-covid-19-memorial-garden-opens