Richmond parks celebrate record Green Flag awards

Richmond upon Thames has again been recognised for its excellent green spaces, winning 25 Green Flag Awards.

The results, announced on 14 July as part of the annual Green Flag Awards, recognise the country’s best-managed and most welcoming green spaces. The awards cover 26 borough parks, with one shared by Terrace Gardens and Buccleuch Gardens.

Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, said: "These prestigious awards are a celebration of the knowledge, dedication and care that goes into looking after our parks and open spaces all year round.

"They reflect the hard work of volunteers, local groups, contractors, and council staff, who help make these spaces welcoming, accessible, and rich in nature for residents and visitors to enjoy.

"Our parks play a crucial role in supporting people’s mental and physical wellbeing, as well as providing vital habitats for wildlife. We are proud to see so many green spaces across Richmond upon Thames recognised through the Green Flag Awards."

This is Richmond’s highest Green Flag total, following the addition of one new award for Jubilee Meadow. 

Situated off Heathfield Recreation Ground, Jubilee Meadow is a natural parkland made up of restored meadow, tree-lined edges, and grassland habitats for wildlife. It features an accessible path, mown grass paths, and seating for visitors, including an accessible raised bench.

As part of the awards this year, Richmond Council hosted the Green Flag Peer Review judges and received positive feedback on the borough’s approach to managing and improving its green spaces. 

Building on its long-standing commitment to a greener, more climate-resilient borough, Richmond Council has partnered with Trees for Streets to expand opportunities for community involvement in tree planting.

The Council is also encouraging visitors to help keep parks safe and pleasant for everyone, particularly during periods of hot, dry weather. People can support this by taking litter home if bins are full, reporting overflowing bins, avoiding barbecues or open flames in parks and open spaces, disposing of cigarettes carefully, and not leaving glass bottles behind.