26
July
2018
|
16:00
Europe/London

City Corporation open spaces sweep Green Flag Awards

15 of the City of London Corporation’s open spaces including iconic sites such as Epping Forest and Hampstead Heath have received the prestigious Green Flag Award for 2018.

The Green Flag Awards Scheme (http://greenflagaward.org/) is run by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy. The international award, now into its 22nd year, is a sign to the public that a green space is managed to the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Awards are given on an annual basis and winners must apply to achieve a Green Flag Award.

Of the 15 sites, 13 have also received the Green Heritage Award in recognition of their historic features and the high standard of conservation.

The City of London Corporation manages 11,000 acres of green space in London and south east England. It invests £29million a year in it’s sites which attract over 23 million visits annually.

Graeme Smith, Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Open Spaces Committee, said:

“I’m very proud that many of our sites have achieved Green Flag status.

“These awards recognise our commitment to protecting and conserving our green spaces for the enjoyment of the public and the nation.

“Our tapestry of green spaces cover the width and breadth of London and are an essential part of the communities that they serve.

“They would not exist without our passionate and dedicated staff and volunteers who work together throughout the year to maintain and protect the areas for the nation to enjoy.

The City of London Corporation protects and conserves major green spaces in the Square Mile and across London and south east England – including two ancient woodlands. They include important wildlife habitats, sites of scientific interest and national nature reserves. They are protected from being built on by special legislation.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Sites that have achieved both the Green Flag Award and Green Heritage Award:

Ashtead Common

Bunhill Fields

Burnham Beeches NNR

City of London Cemetery and Crematorium

Epping Forest

Farthing Downs & New Hill

Hampstead Heath

Highgate Wood

Kenley Common

Queen's Park

Riddlesdown

West Ham Park

West Wickham Common

Sites that have achieved the Green Flag Award:

Coulsdon Common

Spring Park

About the City of London

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Media enquires

Carl Locsin, Media Officer, City of London Corporation

T 020 7332 3654 / M 07388 862 229

E carl.locsin@cityoflondon.gov.uk