National recognition for West Suffolk’s award-winning parks

14 Jul 2026

The council’s commitment to maintaining high-quality parks and green spaces has once again been recognised this week.

Parks and open spaces play a vital role in West Suffolk Council’s delivery of its strategic priorities for thriving communities, environmental resilience and sustainable growth.

Aspal Close Nature Reserve in Beck Row, Brandon Country Park, East Town Park in Haverhill, Nowton Park and The Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds and West Stow Country Park are all managed by West Suffolk Council.

All six parks have today (14 July) been awarded Green Flag status for another year. The achievement marks the seventh consecutive year that all six sites have successfully met the nationally recognised standard.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

The announcement comes ahead of Love Parks Week (24 July to 2 August), the annual campaign led by Keep Britain Tidy that encourages people to explore and enjoy the green spaces on their doorstep.

The Abbey Gardens also won the Green Heritage Site Accreditation for the first time, which alongside the Green Flag award, acknowledges the dedication required to maintain and promote the historical and cultural significance of a park or green space.

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture at West Suffolk Council, said: “We are extremely proud that all six of our parks and green spaces have once again achieved Green Flag status, as they are incredibly important to our communities and to the council’s ambition for a thriving West Suffolk.

“These sites are valued by residents and visitors throughout the year, providing attractive outdoor spaces where people can exercise, relax, socialise and connect with nature. They make a significant contribution to physical and mental health and wellbeing across West Suffolk.

“Our parks also play an important role in supporting biodiversity. Through careful management, they provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife and help protect and enhance the natural environment for future generations.

“They also attract visitors to the area, supporting sustainable growth of our economy. For example, the Abbey Gardens alone receive over 1.3 million visits each year.

“The Green Flag Award is a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers and community groups, whose hard work ensures these spaces continue to be enjoyed by everyone.”

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

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