Hanley Park and Burslem Park have been awarded Green Flag status for their high standards of management, maintenance and visitor experience. The awards recognise the parks as among the best green spaces in the country.
Both parks are Grade II* listed Victorian parks. Hanley Park has undergone extensive restoration in recent years, including refurbishment of its boathouse, formal terrace gardens and pavilion through National Lottery Heritage Fund investment. Burslem Park, which opened in 1894, is described as one of the country's best-preserved Victorian parks.
Recognition for parks teams and volunteers
The awards reflect the dedication of Stoke-on-Trent City Council's parks teams and volunteers who maintain the parks throughout the year, keeping them safe, welcoming and well cared for.
Councillor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for environment and enforcement at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said the parks are at the heart of their communities, providing places for people to relax, exercise, play sport and spend time with family and friends.
Green Flag Award milestone
The Green Flag Award scheme is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, with a record-breaking 2,391 parks and green spaces across the UK receiving the accolade. The scheme is managed by Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and recognises well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for green space management across the UK and around the world.