The HLF first-round pass* means that the Arboretum can now progress to the second stage of the HLF application process. They have up to two years to submit more detailed plans and apply for the £1.5 million of HLF support that they are seeking towards their £8 million Future Foundations Appeal that will see the Arboretum transformed into an internationally acclaimed centre for Remembrance. 

Opened in 2001 and comprising 150 acres of trees and over 160 individual memorials, the National Memorial Arboretum, supported by The Royal British Legion, is the UK's main centre for Remembrance. It honours those who have died in armed service as well as other uniformed services and charitable groups and now attracts more than 300,000 visitors each year.

The Arboretum’s project forms the first phase of long-term plans to develop its visitor facilities and focuses on what Remembrance means to people. Plans include the recruitment and training of 70 new volunteers to assist the 130 people who already work as volunteers at the site.

Commenting on the award, Major General Patrick Cordingley, Chair of the Arboretum’s Future Foundations Appeal, said: “Gaining initial support for our project from the Heritage Lottery Fund is very encouraging. The National Memorial Arboretum is now drawing large numbers of visitors from across the UK and if we were to win the HLF award it would help to ensure that it has the facilities to provide every person who passes through its gate with a uniquely memorable experience.”

Anne Jenkins, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund West Midlands, said: "The National Memorial Arboretum is an incredibly moving and peaceful place to visit. The Heritage Lottery Fund recognises how important it is as a place of Remembrance and is pleased to be able to give its initial support for plans to develop the site. This is the first step in the journey to secure a full grant and we look forward to seeing how the project develops over the next year."

Note to editors

*A first-round pass means the project meets our criteria for funding and we believe it has potential to deliver high-quality benefits and value for Lottery money. The application was in competition with other supportable projects, so a first-round pass is an endorsement of outline proposals. Having been awarded a first-round pass, the project now has up to two years to submit fully developed proposals to compete for a firm award.

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. HLF has supported 33,900 projects, allocating £4.4billion across the UK. 

The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s year-round centre of Remembrance; a spiritually uplifting place which honours the fallen, recognises service and sacrifice, and fosters pride in our country. The Arboretum is part of The Royal British Legion family of charities. Sited in the heart of the Nation, with 50,000 maturing trees and 160 memorials, it is a beautiful and lasting tribute to those who serve their country or who have died in conflict.

Visitors from all walks of life number around 300,000 per year, including Service personnel, veterans, students of all ages, groups and individuals. Over 200 special events are held annually. The Act of Remembrance, including a Silence, is observed daily in the Millennium Chapel.

The Arboretum, situated on landed gifted by Lafarge, is home to the striking Armed Forces Memorial which commemorates those who have been killed on duty or as a result of terrorism from the end of the Second World War to the current conflict in Afghanistan. 

An £8 million redevelopment campaign has been launched to create a world-class Remembrance Centre worthy of those who give so much to our country.

Further information

Andrew Baud, Royal British Legion on 07775 715 775 or andrew.baud@talapr.co.uk