Westmorland and Furness Council is celebrating after receiving a Green Flag Award for Castle Park in Penrith once again. The council-run cemeteries in Penrith and Alston have also earned the internationally recognised standard for parks and green spaces which this year celebrates its 30th year.
Castle Park, and the two cemeteries are amongst a record breaking 2,391 places in the UK to achieve the award this year.
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said: "Parks are essential public spaces that support our wellbeing, our communities and our economy. Yet for millions of people, particularly in the most deprived areas, local parks simply don't feel safe or welcoming.
"With public services under pressure, investing in parks is not a luxury, it's a practical, preventative solution and one of the most visible ways to improve people's quality of life.
"Westmorland and Furness Council have shown what can be achieved when parks are properly supported and managed. As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces like this that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard.
"Congratulations to everyone involved."
Councillor Vicky Hughes, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Active Wellbeing, said: "I'm delighted that once again Castle Park has been recognised with the prestigious Green Flag Award. A great deal of work goes into maintaining the park to the high standards required, so this award is a real reflection of the dedication shown by our teams. Our parks offer a safe place for people to connect with nature, reflect and enhance both physical and mental wellbeing."
Councillor John Murray, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Climate, Biodiversity and Regulatory Services, added: "I am proud that the cemeteries in Penrith and Alston have been recognised alongside parks and open spaces with this Green Flag Award. Cemeteries are peaceful, reflective spaces that hold deep meaning for many in our communities. They offer a place for remembrance, quiet connection with nature and a sense of local heritage. This award is a tribute to the care and respect shown by our staff and volunteers in maintaining these special places to such a high standard."
The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under contract from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.
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