By KLTV Newsdesk –

Six local parks recognised for excellence in maintenance, accessibility and community value

Kirklees parks and green spaces have once again been officially recognised as among the best in the country, after retaining their prestigious Green Flag Awards.

This year, Beaumont Park, Greenhead Park, Castle Hill, Crow Nest Park, and Wilton Park have all achieved the coveted status, alongside Oakwell Hall and Country Park, which has now held the award for an impressive 21 consecutive years.

Recognition of Excellence

The Green Flag Award is an international quality mark that honours well-managed parks and green spaces.

It sets a benchmark for excellence across the UK and globally, acknowledging spaces that are safe, welcoming, well-maintained, and sustainable.

The awards are a testament to the tireless work of the Kirklees Parks and Greenspaces Team, supported by dedicated volunteers and local Friends of Parks groups, who work year-round to ensure these spaces remain clean, accessible, and enjoyable for all.

Celebrating the Community’s Commitment

Councillor Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Communities and Environment, expressed her pride in the achievement, saying: “I am delighted that we have once again received Green Flag Award status for our parks and greenspaces in Kirklees.

“We are very fortunate to have access to so much greenspace, including several parks which are managed and maintained by the council.

“The Green Flag Award status is testament to the dedication of our staff, and also the wider community and volunteers that keep our greenspaces tidy, accessible, and beautiful.

“Our parks are where people come to meet friends, to play and learn, to keep active, or to enjoy events; they play a vital part in helping communities to thrive and are often at the heart of many areas.”

National Praise for Local Standards

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, congratulated everyone involved, commending the tireless effort made to uphold the high standards demanded by the scheme.

He said the parks in Kirklees are not only a source of pride but also play a crucial role in improving health and wellbeing.

He noted that during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, they offer a safe, free space for families to enjoy time together, while also providing significant mental and physical health benefits.

A Lasting Legacy

The Green Flag Award scheme is operated by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government.

It remains the national benchmark for green space management, promoting quality, accessibility, and sustainability.

To discover a park or green space near you, visit the Kirklees Community Directory and enjoy the award-winning landscapes on offer throughout the district.