National Memorial Arboretum to Change Name to Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens in September

The National Memorial Arboretum, a key site for remembrance in the UK, announced in April that it would change its name to the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens starting in September. The decision follows the site's full integration with the Royal British Legion (RBL), which has been its parent charity since 2003.

Officials stated that the new name reflects the site's development over the past 25 years and its role in the RBL's national remembrance activities.

A spokesperson for the RBL said the name change would simplify operations by creating a single board of trustees for both organizations, reducing administrative duplication and costs. The spokesperson added that the move would enable greater agility in decision-making and allow more funds to be invested in the site, along with new fundraising opportunities.

The naming process included research and consultation with the public, members of the armed forces community, volunteers, and staff.

David Childs, who founded the arboretum, stated that he supports the name change. He said his original vision was to create a living place of remembrance rooted in trees, providing a dedicated space to reflect on service and sacrifice. Childs added that the RBL has provided the necessary stewardship and investment for the site to become the nation's year-round place to remember.

“Over time, that vision has grown organically, shaped by those who cared for it and by the many communities who found meaning here." — Commander David Childs Mark Atkinson, director general of the RBL, stated that the arboretum is a remarkable place and holds a special position within the charity. Phillipa Rawlinson, director of the arboretum and of remembrance at the RBL, said the merger provides a strong foundation for the future and that the site will continue to operate as normal.”

Opposition to the Change A petition opposing the name change has gathered thousands of signatures. Those behind the petition stated that altering the name would undermine the site's heritage and the deep emotional connections many have with it. The petition added that the change would result in the loss of the site's unique identity, built over the years.

In response, an RBL spokesperson reiterated that the new name reflects the site's evolution and its central role in the charity's remembrance work.