Green Flag Awards fly high again for three Test Valley parks
Three popular parks in Test Valley have once again been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award – marking over a decade of continued excellence in green space management.
Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve in Andover, Valley Park Woodlands Local Nature Reserve, and Romsey’s War Memorial Park have all retained their Green Flag status for another year. The awards are a national benchmark for well-managed parks and open spaces, recognising the efforts that go into keeping them welcoming, safe, and well-maintained for the public to enjoy.
Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said; “Our parks are a source of real pride in Test Valley – not just for the council, but for the communities who use and care about them. To have retained these Green Flag Awards yet again is a fantastic achievement and reflects the commitment of our staff and volunteers who work year-round to keep our green spaces thriving.”
Portfolio Holder for Climate Emergency and Countryside, Councillor Alison Johnston, said; “Our parks are at the heart of community life in Test Valley - they’re spaces where people come to exercise, to relax, and to connect with each other and with nature. Retaining the Green Flag Award year after year is a real testament to the teams and volunteers who work so hard to keep them at their best.”
Portfolio Holder for Community, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Terese Swain, said; “These awards show just how valued our green spaces are – not just locally, but nationally. Whether it’s a morning dog walk, a family picnic, or a moment of quiet in nature, these parks provide something special for everyone, and I’m proud to see that recognised once again.”
The council manages more than 400 hectares of green space across the borough, ranging from nature reserves and play areas to formal parks and woodlands.
The Green Flag Award scheme is run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. It sets the standard for high-quality green spaces in the UK and beyond.