Record year for Green Flag Awards

A record number of green spaces have been awarded Green Flag status this year.

Over 1,000 green spaces in England and Wales bagged the prestigious award for 2009, including more than 200 brand new winners.

Free, open, green spaces have acquired a “particular importance” as people look for a low-cost escape from the gloom of the recession, Green Flag said.

“One of the most significant aspects of the Green Flag Award is that only green spaces that are free to enter and open to the public are eligible to win,” the awarding body said in a statement.

Other criteria for award winners include cleanliness, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere.

“The award is a sign to visitors that a park has met strict criteria, which among other things require it to be a clean, safe and welcoming place to spend time,” Green Flag said.

Housing Minister Ian Austin congratulated this year’s winners.

“It’s obvious from the number of winners we have this year that green spaces across England and Wales are continuing to improve at an impressive rate,” Austin said.

“Green spaces provide us all with some free space to have fun and relieve the stresses of modern life whether we want to enjoy a picnic, play some tennis or just sit back and relax.”

Some 93 of this year’s winners were awarded a Green Pennant, presented to green spaces managed by community or voluntary groups.