Parks and green spaces in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have been recognised as being well managed and environmentally friendly.

BCP Council has been awarded 23 Green Flags by Keep Britain Tidy.

In addition, Hengistbury Head, Upton Country Park and Poole Park have once again achieved the much-coveted Green Heritage Site Accreditation, which is supported by Historic England.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for Environment and Place, said: “Yet again, I’m so very proud of our parks and open spaces that have been awarded Green Flags across the BCP area. This is fantastic news for both residents and visitors, as it shows we are maintaining our green spaces to the highest standards, whilst ensuring a legacy for future generations.

“As a council, we continue to recognise that our parks are essential in supporting health and wellbeing, and we remain committed to protecting and enhancing our unique, and biodiverse, natural environment.

“These awards are a credit to our parks and open spaces officers who are passionate about maintaining our green spaces. I would also like to especially thank our dedicated park volunteers for all they do in their local community, working alongside the parks team on everything from litter picking to heathland management and supporting our visitor centres, which is very much appreciated.”

Cllr Sean Gabriel, chairman of Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee, BCP Council who attended the flag bearing at Coy Pond in place of Cllr Anderson said: “These awards really demonstrate the pride that our parks staff, working alongside dedicated volunteers, feel towards our parks and open spaces. The hard work that goes into maintaining and improving all our green spaces is immense, it’s a never ending job, and to be awarded 23 Green Flags really highlights a fantastic partnership approach – like the one seen at Coy Pond – which enormously benefits all our residents who use these spaces.”

The 23 parks and open spaces maintained by BCP Council that received a Green Flag in 2022 are: Upton Country Park, Hamworthy Park, Poole Park, Springbourne Gardens, Slades Farm, Queen’s Park, Tuckton Tea Gardens and Riverlands, Fisherman’s Walk, Kinson Common, Hengistbury Head, Boscombe Chine Gardens, Alum Chine including Argyll Gardens, Stour Valley, Upper Central and Lower Gardens, Winton Recreation Ground, Moore Avenue Community Park, Pelhams Park, Redhill Park and Common, Seafield Gardens, Boscombe Cliff Gardens and Local Nature Reserve, Littledown Centre, Muscliff Park and North Cemetery

Christchurch Quay and Roeshot Hill Allotments in the BCP area also received Green Flag Awards this year.