Basingstoke parks fly the flag (From Basingstoke Gazette)

War Memorial Park and Eastrop Park get Green Flag status

4:00pm Wednesday 8th August 2012 in News By Chris Gregory

TWO of Basingstoke’s parks have been recognised as being among the best green spaces in the country.

Eastrop Park was awarded Green Flag status for the 13th year running, while War Memorial Park received the same award for the fifth year in a row.

The Green Flag Award scheme recognises green spaces that are well-managed and of high quality, and are used by communities for health and leisure activities.

Councillor Martin Biermann , mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, said: “I am so delighted that two of our much-loved parks have retained their high standards and have again received the Green Flag award.

“I’d like to thank all the staff and volunteers who show so much dedication and enthusiasm in maintaining the parks in the borough. Achieving these two awards again truly reflects how well our parks are used and the very high standard that we keep them.”

A total of 1,424 green spaces in England and Wales received the accolade this year, after judging by a consortium which includes Keep Britain Tidy, The Conservation Volunteers and Green-space.

Judges met community groups and park users to get a better idea of how much each park was valued.

Both Basingstoke parks are managed by the borough council.

Eastrop Park boasts a boating lake, a paddling pool, and play areas, while War Memorial Park is a popular site for joggers and contains the town’s skate park, an aviary and all-weather tennis courts.