The commemorative plaque that once recorded the planting of an Irish yew by Prince Andrew as part of Lisburn’s 400th anniversary has been replaced with a stone that omits any reference to him. The change, carried out at the civic centre in Lagan Valley Island, follows the removal of the earlier plaque in December.
What changed
The original plaque, installed to mark the tree planted on 17 September 2009, was inscribed: "Planted by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York". That inscription has been removed and a new plate now reads: "Irish Yew Planted on 17 September 2009 To celebrate the 400th Anniversary of Lisburn". The replacement contains no dedication to an individual.
| Item | Inscription (original) | Inscription (replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Plaque text | Planted by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York | Irish Yew Planted on 17 September 2009 To celebrate the 400th Anniversary of Lisburn |
| Removal | Original plaque removed in December; new plaque installed subsequently | |
Council response and political context
A suggestion box was opened by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to gather councillors’ views on the memorial plaque and the tree’s future. The council has declined to provide further comment when asked for the outcome of that chamber poll.
"We were on record previously as supporting the removal of the previous plaque. It is right that the 400th anniversary of Lisburn continues to be marked, and we understand the outcome had broad support across the council."
The comment above was made by a DUP spokesperson in relation to the change. An Alliance spokesperson indicated that the party supported a collective move to install a new plaque, though the full statement was not provided in response to enquiries.
Why this matters locally
- Public memory: The wording of civic plaques contributes to how local history is publicly commemorated.
- Accountability: Residents may expect clarity on decisions taken by elected representatives about local monuments and commemorations.
- Community feeling: Some members of the public had called for the tree to remain while removing the reference to the former royal title.
The change follows national developments involving the former prince, who has faced sustained controversy and legal issues in recent years. His royal titles were surrendered and subsequently removed by the King. The new plaque appears to be an attempt to retain the 400th anniversary commemoration while distancing the marker from association with an individual whose reputation has been the subject of public debate.
Practical information
The tree and its plaque are located at Lagan Valley Island civic centre. It is understood there was no formal ceremony to unveil the replacement plate. The council has not provided further details about the consultation responses or the precise timing of the new plaque’s installation.
Questions remain about whether the council will publish the results of its chamber poll or provide a formal record explaining the decision. Residents seeking further information may contact Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council for official minutes or statements relating to the matter.
