Flags to fly high after parks rated excellent

Seven city parks have been awarded prestigious Green Flags after being rated as some of the finest in the country.

Environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy has judged Easthill Park, Hove Park, Kipling Gardens, Preston Park, St Ann’s Well, Stoneham Park and The Level to be well maintained, providing a good community focus and having excellent facilities.

All of our parks and open spaces played a vital role during the last 18 months as places for people to exercise, relax and meet friends and family safely.

'A fantastic achievement'

Councillor Amy Heley, co-chair of the council’s environment, transport and sustainability committee, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the city and shows just how important our parks and open spaces have been for our residents throughout the pandemic.

“The awarding of the Green Flags for these seven parks also shows the real commitment and dedication of our City Parks staff, Friends groups and volunteers, and the pride they take in their work to maintain these wonderful spaces that everyone can enjoy.”

'City-wide success story'

The seven winning parks – in Brighton, Hove, Portslade and Rottingdean - will each be able to fly the coveted Green Flag, meaning it really is a city-wide success story.

A report on Hove Park by the Green Flag judges said: “We spent time just watching the world go by whilst we were here - this park is so well used by so many different people connecting with the space in so many different ways.

“It is a pleasure to see something so loved locally and the staff that work to ensure that this is enabled, for all these people and families, I really do hope they take pride in that.

“Well done to all as the park is looking good, you can see it's understood by the team and is being well cared for by all involved. Keep up the good work everyone.”

'Congratulations to everyone involved'

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making these seven beautiful parks and open spaces worthy of a Green Flag Award.

“To meet the requirements demanded by the scheme is testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure these parks and open spaces have high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management and are safe place that supports people to live healthy lives.”