Green Flag recognition for Preston parks

Seven parks and open spaces across Preston have been recognised by the Green Flag Award Scheme as some of the

very best in the world. The newest award is for Moor Park, following its recent Heritage Lottery funded restoration.

The sites are among a record-breaking 1,883 UK parks and green spaces that will today receive prestigious Green Flag Awards or Green Flag Community Awards – the mark of a quality park or green space.

This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Preston’s seven Green Flags are awarded to:
• Moor Park
• Avenham Park
• Miller Park
• Ashton Park
• Haslam Park
• Winckley Square Gardens
• Fishwick Local Nature Reserve

There are also Green Flag Community Awards retained by the Friends of Haslam Park for the sensory garden and local nature reserve.

Cabinet member for community and environment, Councillor Brian Rollo, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for seven sites across Preston, including Moor Park for the first time.

“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining them all to such a high standard.

“It’s great recognition for all the hard work by park rangers, gardeners, staff, volunteers and Friends Groups to keep all our parks and open spaces looking at their best all year round. We’re especially proud to include Moor Park this year, following the restoration project. Huge thanks to Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery Fund, other partners and contractors who have helped us get to this position.”

Winckley Square Gardens also retains the much coveted additional Green Heritage Site Accreditation for the management of the historic gardens.

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme, with more Green Flags awarded this year than last year.
“Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We are proud to have so many wonderful green spaces in the UK for people to enjoy, and hope that next year, we award even more flags.”

#LoveParks week is 13-22 July 2018. Celebrate with Preston