PARKS and green spaces across Worcester have once again earned the coveted Green Flag Award.
The awards recognise the continued commitment and hard work of local volunteers and Worcester City Council staff in maintaining high standards for the city’s parks and spaces.
Gheluvelt Park, Fort Royal Park, Cripplegate Park and Riverside Park have all retained their Green Flag status, highlighting their importance as well-kept and welcoming areas for residents and visitors alike.
The awards were made after independent Green Flag inspectors visited each park, and ‘mystery shoppers’ checked that high standards were being maintained all year round.
Coun Zoe Cookson, chair of Worcester City Council’s environment committee, said: “We’re thrilled that our parks have once again achieved Green Flag status.
“Worcester is fortunate to have such well-maintained, attractive green spaces that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors throughout the year.
“Each of our parks and green spaces has its own unique character, and we’re incredibly grateful to the dedicated volunteer groups who help care for them, working alongside the city council’s green space team.”
Over the past year, a range of improvements at Gheluvelt Park have helped more plants to thrive, enhancing the park’s natural beauty.
The Worcester Rotary Club has contributed by installing ‘chatty benches’ to promote social interaction and by upgrading the area surrounding the refurbished Splashpad.
The Victorian Pump House has been revamped as Kyndfolk, a cafe, community room and community garden. The opening of Kepax Bridge has also made Gheluvelt Park more accessible for Worcester residents.
The Green Flag Award scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
The scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.
