Gillingham Town Council proudly celebrates international recognition for three of its public open spaces.
The three public green spaces are among 2,250 parks and green spaces across the UK to receive the accolade this year, a reflection of the high standards in horticulture, safety, accessibility, biodiversity, and community engagement upheld by those who manage them.
The Green Flag Award Scheme, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), sets the benchmark for excellence in green space management both nationally and globally. The achievement is a testament to the commitment of Gillingham Town Council’s Grounds Team and the dedication of the volunteers from Gillingham Action for Nature and Green (GANG), who work in partnership to ensure these sites are well maintained, ecologically rich, and welcoming to the public.
Cllr Fiona Cullen, Mayor of Gillingham, commented, “This award is a recognition not just of excellent grounds maintenance, but also of our shared commitment to biodiversity and sustainability. Gillingham’s green spaces are more than just beautiful places – they are living ecosystems that support pollinators, enhance air quality, and help tackle climate change. I would like to thank our dedicated Grounds Team and all the volunteers who give their time and passion to protect and enhance our natural environment. These awards show what can be achieved when councils and communities work together to value nature and invest in green infrastructure for the future.”
Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said, “Congratulations to everyone involved in Gillingham who has worked tirelessly to ensure that the town’s green spaces meet the high standards required for a Green Flag Award. Quality parks and green spaces like these make the country a healthier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest. The sites in Gillingham are vital green spaces for communities to enjoy nature, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis they are a free and safe space for families to socialise. They also provide important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.”
Any green space that is freely accessible to the public is eligible to enter for a Green Flag Award. Awards which are given on an annual basis and winners must apply each year to renew their Green Flag Award status. To find out more visit the website: greenflagaward.org.
