Two Lincoln parks flying the flag as among the UK’s best green spaces

Hartsholme Country Park and The Arboretum have once again been recognised by the Green Flag awards scheme as among the best green spaces in the country.
Keep Britain Tidy, which organises the awards, was particularly impressed by a range of improvements at Hartsholme, which has received the award for the ninth consecutive year. The parks are among a record-breaking 1,797 UK parks and green spaces to receive a prestigious Green Flag Award – the mark of a quality park or green space – this week. Now into its third decade, this international award is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

At Hartsholme Country Park, judges highlighted excellent events listings, community involvement and use of the park, and wildlife conservation management as particularly good, adding that the park is ‘very lucky to have such a dedicated and hardworking team of volunteers.’

Councillor Donald Nannestad, Portfolio Holder for Health and Recreational Services at the city council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive Green Flag awards once again at two of our parks. This is a testament to all the hard work of the staff and volunteers who are committed to providing welcoming, safe and clean environments all year round.

 “We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and businesses, and that’s why enhancing our remarkable place is one of the council’s main priorities. By creating and maintaining attractive environments we are providing places that help people relax, stay healthy, socialise and so much more.

 “Lincoln is fortunate to have three fantastic parks, alongside a host of other open spaces, and we are proud to be working hard to constantly improve these spaces. It’s fantastic that the Green Flag awards have recognised this.

 “I would especially like to thank the many volunteers who help towards the upkeep of the parks. It’s great to have local communities involved in the places which matter to them.”

International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme. 

“Each flag is a celebration of the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. The success of the scheme, especially in these challenging times, demonstrates just how much parks matter to people.”

Another of the council’s green spaces, Boultham Park, is currently undergoing a multi-million pound restoration thanks to Heritage Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund.

Working in partnership with learning disability charity Linkage, the plans involve converting the former stable block into an education centre as well as building a café, horticulture centre and restoring park features. The work will also introduce some lighting and will feature improved pathways, CCTV, signs and seating.

It is hoped the 50-acre park will achieve Green Flag status upon completion of the work. Details are available at www.boulthampark.co.uk.

To find out more about the Green Flag Award go to www.greenflagaward.org.uk