Lichfield District Council has announced that four of its parks have been recognised with Green Flag Awards, the nationally recognised benchmark for well-managed green spaces.
Princes Park and Stowe Pool & Fields have achieved the award for the first time. Beacon Park and Burntwood Park have retained the award following previous recognition. The four awards double the number of nationally recognised green spaces in the district.
What the Green Flag Award recognises
The internationally recognised Green Flag Award identifies parks and green spaces that are welcoming, safe, beautifully maintained and support both people and nature. The award recognises environmental management, biodiversity, cleanliness, safety and community involvement. It is managed by Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Why the awards matter
Lichfield District Council's Cabinet Member for Parks, Councillor Phil Whitehouse, said the awards reflect the council's commitment to investing in high-quality parks. He noted that parks serve multiple purposes — places where people exercise, spend time with family and friends, connect with nature and support their wellbeing.
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said parks are essential public spaces that support wellbeing, communities and the economy. He highlighted that investing in parks is a practical way to improve people's quality of life, particularly in deprived areas where parks may not feel safe or welcoming.