Mark Congratulates Green Flag Award Winners
31 Jul 2009
Mark today sent congratulations to the winners of the Green Flag Award Scheme – the national standard for parks and green spaces. Avenham and Miller Parks, Grange Park, Haslam Park and Fishwick Bottoms were named by Ian Austin MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government, as the winners of this prestigious award.
The Green Flag Award scheme began in 1996 as a means of recognising and rewarding the best green spaces in the country. It is a way of encouraging others to achieve the same high environmental standards, creating a benchmark of excellence in recreational green areas.
Grade II listed Avenham and Miller Park rank among the finest examples of Victorian parkland in the North West. They include a natural amphitheatre, Japanese Garden, Boer War Memorial, an Italianate Terrace and a listed fountain. The park plays host to year round outdoor events including musical and cultural events, ranging from the Mela, Easter Egg Rolling event and the forthcoming Rock in the Park concert.
Award winning Grange Park, which is located in Ribbleton has formal gardens, a children’s playground, a community kitchen garden, a round bowling green and a site based team who deliver events all year round. Haslam Park is the most naturalised park in Preston and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park also boasts a Multi Use Games Area, children’s play area, formal gardens and an ornamental lake suitable for fishing. Recent refurbishments at Fishwick Bottoms Recreation Ground and Local Nature Reserve have included provision of a competitive standard BMX racing track, a football pitch and a baseball diamond. Other improvements include cycle parking, changing rooms and sports equipment storage.
Mark said: “I am delighted that not one but four green spaces in Preston have been successful in winning this award. It is a testament to all the people who work hard all year round to improve the environment and quality of life for all of us and I would encourage everyone to go and see the good work for themselves, this summer”.
Ian Austin MP added: “The scheme is an important part of the Government’s commitment to improve the quality of parks and green spaces and we want to ensure that every community has access to good quality green spaces and to recognise the achievements and dedication of those managing green spaces, including community groups.”