Record number of sites receive Green Flag Awards

More than 2,000 parks and community spaces around the country have been given Green Flag Awards this year.

A total of 2,061 places have achieved the award, which is given to sites maintained by both parks staff and volunteers.

In addition, 109 of the winners have also achieved the much-coveted Green Heritage Site Accreditation for the management of their historic features. The Accreditation is supported by Historic England.

The scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The announcement is normally made in July, but it was delayed this year due to Covid-19 and while staff and volunteers dealt with challenges that went along with huge numbers of additional visitors.

‘Parks and green spaces have never been more important for the physical and mental health of everyone,’ said award scheme manager, Paul Todd.

‘All the research shows that spending time in good-quality green space can improve people’s health and wellbeing, that is why it is important that they are managed to the recognised standard of the Green Flag Award. This is now something that millions more recognise after the challenges of the past six months. All those involved in the Green Flag Award should be congratulated on their achievement.’

Photo Credit – Pixabay