Seven Barking and Dagenham parks have once again been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award, a mark of excellence given to well-managed parks and green spaces that meet the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and community involvement.

The parks include Barking Park, Mayesbrook Park, St. Chad's Park, Valence Park, Castle Green, Eastbrookend Country Park, and Beam Parklands.

The Green Flag Award scheme - managed by Keep Britain Tidy - recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard across the UK and around the world.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “We’re so proud our parks have once again been recognised with seven Green Flag Awards. This achievement is a reflection of our amazing staff, volunteers and community groups who go above and beyond to maintain our parks and open spaces all year round.

“And, as we head into Love Parks Week, I encourage residents to explore the wide range of brilliant park facilities on their doorstep.”

Councillor Kashif Haroon, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Climate Change, said: “Maintaining seven award-winning parks is no small task, and this recognition is a testament to the hard work of our parks and cleansing teams who ensure these spaces are clean, safe, and enjoyable. Their commitment keeps our green spaces among the best in the country.”

The council is committed to investing in and preserving its green spaces. Over the past eight years alone, £25m has been invested into the borough’s parks, made possible by grant funding.

For more information about local parks and facilities, visit www.lbbd.gov.uk/love-your-parks