Christchurch Quay has received the coveted Green Flag Award as it is officially recognised as one of the country’s best parks.
Christchurch Town Council was presented with the prestigious award at a celebration in London alongside other winners of the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.
Melanie Blackman, Projects and Operations Officer, said: “I’m so proud and privileged to be a part of the team that looks after this amazing environment.
“The wonderful heritage of the Quay, the fun family parks on the Quomps and the beautiful river background, provide the perfect space for the whole community to enjoy year-round.
“Achieving this award is a fabulous way of demonstrating our commitment to ensuring Christchurch’s parks and open spaces are nurtured and are accessible for all.”
The accolade is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team and volunteers that care for the green space so that visitors and residents alike can enjoy it.
Paul Todd MBE, Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Christchurch Quay on achieving a Green Flag Award.
“The Quay is a vital green space for people in Christchurch to socialise, enjoy nature, for children to play safely and it provides important opportunities for park users to improve their physical and mental health.
“We know that staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award, everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement.
“It is important that our free to use spaces are maintained to the Green Flag Award standard, making them accessible for all members of the community while ensuring the environment is protected.”
The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, 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.
Any green space that is freely accessible to the public is eligible to enter for a Green Flag Award. Awards are given on an annual basis and winners must apply each year to renew their Green Flag Award status.