Environmental charity, Keep Scotland Beautiful has announced that 71 parks from across Scotland have been presented with a Green Flag Award this year. The awards are in recognition of their high standards and provision of quality outdoor space – with Dock Park being awarded in Dumfries and Galloway.
The Green Flag Award, administered in Scotland by Keep Scotland Beautiful, is the benchmark for green space. Dock Park, run by Dumfries and Galloway Council, has received the award acknowledging the quality outdoor space that it provides and the wider benefits it delivers for communities – including enabling and encouraging exercise, improving mental well-being and encouraging play for child development.
This is the fifth consecutive year that the Dock Park has been awarded the Green Flag accolade. To mark the occasion, the new Green flag was raised at the Dock Park by Provost Tracy Little, Vice Chair of Communities Committee, John Martin and Friends of the Dock Park volunteers Trevor Muir and Fiona Jones. They were joined by Town Centre Ambassador, Lorraine Wilson and park keeper, Mike Swinhoe.
Communities Committee Vice-Chair Cllr John Martin, commented:
“We are delighted that Dock Park has been awarded a Green Flag Award for the fifth year in succession. This shows the investment made in the regeneration of the Park has been a success with both local families and visitors enjoying the Park and many activities on offer.
“A lot of hard work has been put into getting to where we are today with this historic park and this achievement is a reward for all those involved in these efforts. The volunteers at the Dock Park have a great programme of activities this summer. I hope people will go along, take part and have fun at the park.”
Provost of Dumfries, Tracey Little, said:
“The Green Flag award is a testament to the hard work of everyone at the Dock Park. The community involvement at the park and the enthusiasm of everyone involved has paid off. Our parks across the region continue to provide great leisure opportunities for locals and visitors alike and are the focus for many community events, particularly over the summer. Good quality green open spaces are vital to the health and wellbeing of local communities, families and individuals. Parks and open spaces are a fantastic asset – they are free to use and provide opportunities to exercise and socialise. I am very proud that this has been recognised at the Dock Park.”Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful commented:
“I would like to congratulate all 71 parks from across Scotland for achieving this prestigious benchmark. The Green Flag Award scheme sets the standard for the management of our outdoor spaces and recognises the hard work of everyone involved. These are exceptional open spaces and the nation benefits hugely from them”.
All parks are assessed by volunteer judges with a background in parks management, conservation or ecology. Applicants are judged against demanding criteria which include assessing whether the park or green space is welcoming and well-maintained.
To be considered for the awards, the park managing authority must apply. Further information on how to see your local park involved in the Green Flag Awards can be found at: www.keepscotlandbeautiful.org/parks
To keep up to date with what’s going on in the Dock Park visit www.dumgal.gov.uk or search “Friends of Dock Park” on Facebook.
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