Four of Huntingdonshire's most treasured green spaces have once again been recognised among the very best in the country after retaining their prestigious Green Flag Award status.
Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, Riverside Park in St Neots, and Priory Park have all successfully met the high standards required by the international quality mark, which celebrates well-managed parks and green spaces across the UK and beyond.
The Green Flag Award is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy and recognises parks that are welcoming, safe, well maintained, environmentally managed and support biodiversity, community engagement and visitor enjoyment.
The continued success of these four sites is a testament to the dedication and hard work of Huntingdonshire District Council's countryside and parks teams, alongside the invaluable support of their volunteers who help care for these much-loved spaces throughout the year.
Councillor Julie Kerr, Executive Councillor for Parks and Countryside, Waste and Street Scene, said:
"We are incredibly proud that Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Paxton Pits Nature Reserve, Riverside Park and Priory Park have all retained their Green Flag Awards. This recognition reflects the commitment of our teams and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure these parks remain welcoming, well-maintained and biodiverse spaces for everyone to enjoy.
"Our parks play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities, providing places for recreation, relaxation and connecting with nature. They are also important habitats for wildlife, and we remain committed to protecting and enhancing these special places for future generations."
The four award-winning sites each offer something unique for residents and visitors:
-
Hinchingbrooke Country Park provides more than 170 acres of woodland, grassland and lakes, offering walking trails, family activities, outdoor events and opportunities to experience nature close to Huntingdon.
-
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is recognised for its nationally important habitats and rich wildlife, making it one of the region's premier destinations for birdwatching, walking and nature conservation.
-
Riverside Park, St Neots is a popular destination alongside the River Great Ouse, offering open green spaces, riverside walks, play areas and community events.
-
Priory Park continues to be a valued community park, providing attractive open spaces for recreation, relaxation and family activities in the heart of St Neots.
The Green Flag Award scheme sets the benchmark for the management of recreational outdoor spaces, recognising sites that are welcoming, accessible, safe and sustainably managed while protecting the natural environment.
Huntingdonshire District Council remains committed to investing in its parks and open spaces, ensuring they continue to provide high-quality environments where residents and visitors can enjoy nature, improve their wellbeing and spend time outdoors.
To find out more about the Green Flag Awards.