Celebrating Love Parks Week: West Suffolk’s award winning green spaces shine

24 Jul 2025

As Love Parks Week begins, residents and visitors are being encouraged to explore and enjoy the outstanding parks and green spaces across the district - six of which have just been awarded prestigious Green Flag status for the sixth consecutive year.

Love Parks Week is an annual campaign running from Friday 25 July to Sunday 3 August, led by Keep Britain Tidy to highlight how parks boost the health and wellbeing of communities and residents.

Parks encourage physical activity, reduces stress and provides spaces for social interaction, as well as acting as natural filters improving air quality.

The six West Suffolk parks achieved the prestigious Green Flag status, a scheme that recognises the best well-managed green spaces both nationally and internationally:

• Aspal Close Nature Reserve, Beck Row
• Brandon Country Park
• East Town Park, Haverhill
• Nowton Park, Bury St Edmunds
• Abbey Gardens, Bury St Edmunds
• West Stow Country Park

West Suffolk’s investment in its parks reflects the council’s strategic priorities, including environmental resilience, thriving communities and sustainable growth. There are many other parks and green spaces managed by the authority across West Suffolk, each providing an important recreational and amenity asset to the local communities they serve.

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “Love Parks Week is the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy all that our green spaces have to offer. From peaceful walks and family picnics, to spotting wildlife or simply soaking up nature, our parks are here for everyone - and it’s wonderful to see them recognised nationally with Green Flag Awards.

“These spaces are not just beautiful; they are essential to our thriving communities. They support physical and mental health, enhance biodiversity and build our environmental resilience, and help drive economic growth through tourism and local pride.

“As Love Parks Week begins, I invite everyone to visit their local park or perhaps visit one in West Suffolk they haven’t been to before. Take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty, and celebrate the green spaces that bring joy, relaxation and life to our communities.”

More information about West Suffolk parks can be found on our Parks webpages.

Read more about West Suffolk parks being awarded Green Flag status: West Suffolk parks continue to prove a winner

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