Keep Britain Tidy has today announced the winners of the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, the Green Flag Award.
The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for their management across the United Kingdom and around the world.
Addison Howard Park, Bedford Park, Harrold-Odell Country Park and Priory Country Park, have all yet again been included in the winners list for this year. Harrold-Odell Country Park did exceptionally well, scoring overall in the highest category this year, which reflects the hard work put into the management of the park from the Country Park Team and Friends of Harrold-Odell Country Park.
In addition, the judges gave a special mention about the amazing park volunteers, and the work they undertake to make the local parks as beautiful as they are.
Hill Rise Local Nature Reserve, Mowsbury Hillfort and Putnoe Wood, which are managed through Bedford Borough Council’s volunteer groups, the Friends of Hill Rise and the Friends of Putnoe Wood and Mowsbury Hillfort, have also retained their Green Flag Community Awards.
Councillor Jim Weir, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Highways & Transport said, “Our parks and green spaces have once again received the prestigious Green Flag Award, a testament to the phenomenal dedication of our officers and volunteers, who tirelessly invest their time and effort in making these spaces truly remarkable.
“Parks are an invaluable resource and in the last few years we’ve seen just how important to local people for both our physical and mental wellbeing, so I’m incredibly proud to see them recognised in this way for the wonderful, unique spaces that they are.”
Bedford Borough Council has reiterated its commitment to continually improving the parks and open spaces it manages, with playground improvements planned at Priory Country Park and Commercial Road Playgrounds later this year as part of the Riverside for All Project. They have also invested in new fitness equipment in Bedford Park and Mill Meadows over the last few months, along with planting new wildflower areas, which sprung into bloom during June.
If you would be interested in volunteering in one of the Council’s parks and green spaces, please visit www.bedford.gov.uk/volunteering or sign up to the Community Volunteering email bulletin at www.bedford.gov.uk/stayconnected.