Why it matters: The international quality mark recognises parks that provide free, safe spaces for families while delivering physical and mental health benefits to communities.
The big picture: Ipswich Borough Council is celebrating after receiving a trio of accolades for the parks, which are among 2,250 sites across the UK to achieve official recognition for being among the country's best through the Green Flag Award scheme.
The details: This marks the sixth consecutive year that Bourne Park has achieved Green Flag status, while Christchurch Park has held the award for 18 years in succession and Holywells Park for 16 years running.
What they’re saying: Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd MBE said: "Quality parks and green spaces make the country a healthier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest. Crucially, parks like these are free and safe spaces for families to socialise, for children to play, and for everyone to enjoy nature."
Councillor Lucy Trenchard, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Parks and Climate Change, said: "We are all delighted that Bourne, Christchurch and Holywells Parks have maintained their Green Flag status, together totalling 40 award-winning years. I'd like to thank our hard-working Parks team, community groups and volunteers who make them such special places."
For context: The Green Flag Award scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government. It annually recognises well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for green space management across the UK and around the world.
The bottom line: The awards recognise the dedication of council staff, community groups and volunteers in maintaining green spaces that provide crucial environmental, health and social benefits for Ipswich residents and visitors. And, let’s be honest, we’re incredibly fortunate to have so many incredible green spaces in our town.
