City of London Corporation’s Green Spaces Garner Top Environmental Awards
The City of London Corporation’s green open spaces have once again been recognised for their excellence in management and conservation. Fifteen of its sites, including iconic locations such as Epping Forest, Hampstead Heath, and West Ham Park, have received the prestigious Green Flag Award. This accolade, awarded by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, acknowledges some of the best-maintained green spaces globally.
Thirteen of these award-winning sites have also achieved Green Heritage Award status, celebrating their historic features and exceptional conservation standards. These accolades highlight the City Corporation’s ongoing commitment to preserving the natural and historical heritage of London and the southeast of England.
The City of London Corporation manages over 11,000 acres of green space, investing more than £38 million annually. These spaces, many of which operate as charitable trusts, provide substantial benefits to local communities at minimal cost. They include a variety of vital wildlife habitats, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Areas of Conservation, and National Nature Reserves, all protected under stringent legislation.
A recent report revealed the extensive societal benefits of these green open spaces, valuing them at £282.6 million annually and £8.1 billion over 50 years. With over 47 million visitors each year, these green spaces attract more than three times the annual attendance of Premier League football matches and nearly eight times the visitors to the Grand Canyon.
Caroline Haines, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Natural Environment Board and West Ham Park Committee, expressed pride in the achievements: “Our network of parks, forests, heaths, and commons are a lifeline for so many people. Their value to society and nature is priceless. The work that goes into maintaining these world-class sites is a significant undertaking, and the passion and dedication from staff and volunteers truly set these places apart. I am incredibly proud of everything they do to keep our green spaces in such wonderful condition.”
The City Corporation’s commitment to green spaces dates back to the 1870s, when it began safeguarding public areas from private development. Today, these spaces are crucial for physical wellbeing, mental health, and environmental education, and play a significant role in combating climate change.
For further details on the City of London Corporation and the Green Flag Award scheme, visit City of London Corporation and Keep Britain Tidy.
