Green Flag scheme recognition for Wellington's green spaces

WELLINGTON Town Council and local community groups are celebrating as the town has been awarded four Green Flags.

Wellington Park, Swains Nature Reserve, Fox’s Field, and Wellington Basins have been recognised in the Green Flag Award Scheme - an internationally-recognised accreditation that shows a green space is of a high quality and represents the benchmark standard for outdoor spaces.

Open spaces manager, Darren Hill said, “We are delighted that Wellington Park has once again been awarded the prestigious Heritage Green Flag Award, receiving international recognition through the Green Flag Award Scheme.

“This achievement reflects the ongoing commitment, professionalism and dedication of our ground’s maintenance teams, volunteers and community partners and local business, whose collective efforts ensure these valued green spaces are maintained to the highest standards throughout the year.”

“I am equally pleased to announce that Swains Nature Reserve, The Basins, and Fox’s Field have each been awarded Community Green Flag Awards.

“These awards celebrate the dedication and hard work of the volunteers, community groups, and staff who work tirelessly to protect, enhance, and promote these important local green spaces.”

The open spaces at Swains Nature Reserve, the Basins, and Fox’s Field are all maintained by volunteer organisations who work year-round to ensure that these spaces are enjoyable for the public.

The land that these spaces are on is owned almost entirely by Wellington Town Council, with the authority available to help these voluntary organisations with larger jobs such as grass cutting and tree maintenance.

Mayor Mark Lithgow added, “I am delighted that our outstanding Open Spaces Team and local community groups have again been recognised for the care and attention they give to Wellington’s green heritage.

“I would like to thank the Friends of The Basins for the tremendous hard work they invest in ensuring the area remains well maintained, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.

"I would also like to recognise the Friends of Swains Nature Reserve for their dedication over many years. Their commitment has played a vital role in the reserve’s success, and it is especially rewarding to see that some of the original volunteers remain actively involved today.

“My gratitude also extends to Transition Town Wellington, whose efforts have helped transform no fewer than 14 sites across Wellington.

“Fox’s Field is a wonderful example of the positive impact this work has had and remains an important destination within the town’s green corridor.”

“These awards are a testament to the commitment of everyone involved in maintaining high-quality, safe, welcoming, and environmentally sustainable parks and green spaces for residents and visitors alike.

“They recognise excellence in environmental management, biodiversity, heritage conservation, community engagement, and visitor experience.”

The sites recognised in this year’s Green Flag Awards make a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of the Wellington community. They provide high-quality spaces for recreation, relaxation, and engagement with nature while also supporting and enhancing local biodiversity.

Darren Hill added: “We remain committed to the continued stewardship, enhancement, and sustainability of these important community assets for the benefit of current and future generations.”