GREAT YEAR: Watford celebrates another record breaking year for its parks

Watford’s green spaces have been granted more Green Flag awards than any other district in Hertfordshire, for the fifth year running.

Twelve parks and open spaces in Watford were awarded Green Flag awards, recognising the work of Watford Borough Council and Veolia who have worked hard to preserve these environments.

Elected mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “When I speak to residents, many of them tell me that our fantastic parks and green spaces are one of the things they like most about Watford.

“That’s why I’m pleased that we’ve got the highest number of green flags in Hertfordshire, and one of the highest in the country. 

“When I was elected as Mayor I committed to continued investments in improving our parks, we are making great progress and it is wonderful to be recognised for this while we continue to make improvements such as Oxhey Activity Park, Garston Park, Woodside Playing Fields and Lea Farm Recreation Ground.”

Elected mayor Peter Taylor also mentioned how important parks have become since the outbreak of COVID-19. 

He continued: “There is strong evidence that open green spaces have a huge impact on people’s health and well-being. We are committed to enabling people access to places where they can connect with nature, take exercise and also have fun. I would also like to thank Veolia staff and the ‘Friends of’ groups who do so much to keep our parks in a good condition.”

Darren Harding, senior contract manager at Veolia spoke about how important the awards are.

He said: “We are absolutely delighted to be awarded 12 Green Flag Awards again this year. The awards are so important for recognising the value of our parks and green spaces to both biodiversity and people’s health and well-being.”

The 2020 Green Flag status parks in Watford are: Cassiobury Park, Woodside Playing Fields, Cheslyn House and Gardens, Waterfields Recreation Ground, Callowland Recreation Ground, Orchard Park, Oxhey Park, St Mary’s Churchyard, Goodwood Recreation Ground, Paddock Road Allotments, North Watford Cemetery, and Harwoods Recreation Ground.