THE milestone of the Queen becoming the longest serving monarch is set to be honoured at a beauty spot known as the jewel in Weymouth’s crown.

Plans are afoot to create a Queen Elizabeth II Celebration Arch at the entrance to Greenhill Gardens.

The Friends of Greenhill Gardens – which helps Weymouth and Portland Borough Council maintain the site – have been planning since 2012 to create an entrance archway at the main promenade entrance to the gardens.

It has since been decided to dedicate it to the Queen to mark her long reign.

The council has been approached to support the project by making up a funding shortfall.

The Friends have raised £9,000 towards the arch including donations from Weymouth Rotary Club, Tesco, Weymouth BID, a private donation, plus other fundraising from quizzes and events in the gardens.

The council’s management committee will be asked to give £6,000.

Dorset Echo:

COLOURFUL: Greenhill Gardens Picture: FINNBARR WEBSTER

Greenspace & Bereavement Services Manager Tara Williams says in a report to next Tuesday's meeting: “The Friends appreciate the borough council is facing significant financial pressures and does not have an established grants budget that can readily support such schemes.

“However, the gardens are a considerable asset to Weymouth and any improvements to the site will benefit both the council and the community.”

Councillors will be told The Friends of Greenhill Gardens was established in 2007 and supports the council by carrying out extensive fundraising events to invest in projects that improve the gardens, including the introduction of a bandstand to host events throughout the year.

The Friends also undertake renovation projects and actively market the site via leafleting and social media.

Mrs Williams says in 2016 the Weymouth Civic Society awarded the council a letter of appreciation for the work that has been carried out in Greenhill Gardens and a national Green Flag has been retained for 11 years.

She says: “The Friends of Greenhill Gardens have contributed to this success and played an important partnership role in enabling the council to maintain the gardens to a very high standard.”