We are celebrating a record four Green Flag Awards after Princes Park and Stowe Pool & Fields achieved the prestigious national accolade for the first time, joining Beacon Park and Burntwood Park, which have once again retained the award.
The internationally recognised Green Flag Award is the benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces, recognising places that are welcoming, safe, beautifully maintained and support both people and nature.
The success means Lichfield District now boasts four Green Flag parks, doubling the number of nationally recognised green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Whether it’s families making memories in the play areas, people enjoying a morning run, spotting wildlife around Stowe Pool or attending events in Beacon Park, the district's parks play an important role in everyday life. The awards recognise the dedication, care and investment that goes into maintaining these much-loved spaces throughout the year.
Councillor Phil Whitehouse, Lichfield District Council's Cabinet Member for Parks, said:
“We’re incredibly proud that Lichfield District is now home to four Green Flag Award parks.
“This is fantastic recognition of the hard work that takes place every day to keep our parks welcoming, safe and enjoyable for everyone. It’s particularly exciting to see Princes Park and Stowe Pool & Fields achieve Green Flag status for the first time alongside the continued success of Beacon Park and Burntwood Park.
“Our parks are much more than green spaces. They're places where people exercise, spend time with family and friends, connect with nature and support their wellbeing. These awards reflect our continued commitment to investing in high-quality parks that our communities can be proud of.”
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said:
“Parks are essential public spaces that support our wellbeing, our communities and our economy. Yet for millions of people, particularly in the most deprived areas, local parks simply don’t feel safe or welcoming.
“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.
“Lichfield District Council have 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.
“Congratulations to everyone involved.”
The Green Flag Award is managed by Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. It recognises parks and green spaces that meet the highest standards for environmental management, biodiversity, cleanliness, safety and community involvement.
The Green Flag Awards reflect Lichfield District Council's continued investment in parks and open spaces, with recent improvements including new leisure facilities, upgraded play areas, biodiversity projects and enhancements that make it easier for people to enjoy the outdoors. Together with the dedication of the council’s parks team and local volunteers, these improvements are helping create green spaces that support health and wellbeing, encourage nature to thrive and provide places where communities can come together.
Residents are encouraged to explore all four Green Flag parks throughout the summer and discover everything they have to offer.