Rooksbury Mill Nature Reserve
Award-winning green spaces continue to thrive across Test Valley
Three of Test Valley’s most treasured green spaces have once again been recognised with the prestigious Green Flag Award, continuing a remarkable run of success and reinforcing the borough’s reputation for high-quality parks and nature reserves.
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 award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, recognising sites that are welcoming, well-managed and make a positive contribution to both people and nature.
This latest achievement marks another consecutive year of Green Flag success for the three sites, reflecting Test Valley Borough Council’s ongoing commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural environment. From conserving habitats and supporting biodiversity to maintaining safe and attractive spaces for residents and visitors, the council’s Parks and Countryside and Environmental Services teams with support from our dedicated volunteers work throughout the year to ensure these much-loved parks continue to thrive.
Councillor Phil North, Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: “Retaining Green Flag status year after year is an achievement we’re incredibly proud of. These awards recognise the dedication, expertise and care that go into managing our green spaces, ensuring they remain places where wildlife can flourish and communities can enjoy the outdoors. To receive this recognition once again demonstrates the long-term commitment we have made to protecting and enhancing the natural environment across Test Valley.”
Portfolio holder for climate emergency and countryside, Councillor Alison Johnston, said: “Our parks and nature reserves play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, tackling the impacts of climate change and connecting people with nature. Maintaining Green Flag standards year after year takes a huge amount of work, and this award is recognition of the efforts of our countryside teams and volunteers who help care for these special places. It’s fantastic to see their dedication recognised once again.”
Portfolio holder for community, leisure and tourism, Councillor Terese Swain, said: “These awards highlight the quality of the green spaces we’re fortunate to have across Test Valley. Whether people are walking, exercising, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a moment outdoors, these parks make a real difference to wellbeing and quality of life. Achieving Green Flag status again shows that they continue to meet the highest standards and remain a source of pride for our communities.”
The council manages more than 400 hectares of green space across the borough, including nature reserves, formal parks, woodlands and play areas, helping to protect valuable habitats while providing opportunities for recreation and wellbeing.
The Green Flag Award scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. It sets the benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces across the UK and around the world.