‘A fantastic achievement’ - Six South Tyneside parks recognised among the country’s best green spaces
Six parks across South Tyneside have retained by coveted Green Flag Award.
Communities across South Tyneside are celebrating six parks being named among the country’s best-managed green spaces.
South Shields’ North Marine Park, South Marine Park, Readhead Park and West Park, as well as Jarrow’s West Park and Monkton Dene Park have all once again secured the internationally recognised quality mark.
The Green Flag Award, which is managed by Keep Britain Tidy, is the benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces - with the scheme now in its 30th year.
Praising the vital role of volunteers
Gary Kirsop, Director of Community Operations at South Tyneside Council, has praised the efforts of everyone who was involved in helping to retain the prestigious award.
He said: "Retaining Green Flag status for all six parks is a fantastic achievement and reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in caring for these valued community spaces.
"Our parks provide welcoming places where residents and visitors can enjoy nature, be active and spend time with family and friends.
"I would like to thank our park staff, contractors and, in particular, the volunteers who give their time and work alongside us throughout the year.
“The passion, commitment and the invaluable contribution of our amazing Friends of parks groups play a vital role in helping to keep these spaces clean, attractive and well maintained for everyone to enjoy."
‘South Tyneside has shown what can be achieved’
After retaining the Green Flags, South Tyneside Council has acknowledged that it has been made possible due to strong partnerships between the local authority and the local Friends groups and volunteers.
The groups dedicate countless hours to litter picking, planting projects, fundraising, community activities, and more.
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, has stated that South Tyneside showcases how parks can “properly supported and managed”.
He commented: "With public services under pressure, investing in parks is not a luxury, it’s a practical, preventative solution and one of the most visible ways to improve people’s quality of life.
“South Tyneside has shown what can be achieved when parks are properly supported and managed.
“As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces like this that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard.”
You can find out more about South Tyneside’s parks at: https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/parks.