PARKS in Chelmsford are the envy of the east of England after picking up 11 Green Flag Awards.

Chelmsford Council has secured the highest number of awards in the region, with flags flying in Central Park, Hylands Estate, Coronation Park, Compass Gardens with Saltcoats Park, Chelmer Park, Boleyn Gardens in Beaulieu Park, Admirals Park/Tower Gardens, including West Park, Melbourne Park, Chancellor Park, Brook End Gardens and now Lionmede Recreation Ground also being awarded accreditation for the first time this year.

The Green Flag Award is the national standard for parks, recognising and rewarding the best parks and green spaces in the country with the scheme‘s quality accreditation. To see a green flag flying in a park assures visitors of the high standard of upkeep and care.

Lionmede is home to the Lionmede Bowls Club, popular with dog walkers and is the perfect location for enjoying sporting activities with the family including a large open area suitable for informal football games, tennis courts and an equipped play area for under 12’s.

The city has also received Green Heritage Awards for Oaklands Park, Hylands Park and for Admirals Park, Tower Gardens and West Park. In addition, Green Flag Community Awards were bestowed on Marconi Ponds and Chelmer Valley Local Nature Reserves.

Councillor Ray Ride, in charge of parks and leisure, said obtaining a Green Flag is the highest achievement for the city’s parks: “We are so pleased that Lionmede has received this accolade. Our dedicated staff ensure our parks are kept to the highest standard so our residents can enjoy being outside in beautiful surroundings.

“I am very proud of the hard work and dedication of the council’s parks staff and friends group volunteers who manage these green spaces throughout the year, which is pleasingly reflected by the increase in the number of awards we have received.”