Mayor raises Green Flag over Happy Valley to celebrate Love Parks Week – Newsroom

The council raised the Green Flag over Happy Valley in Coulsdon as part of Croydon’s Love Parks Week celebrations.

Executive Mayor Jason Perry, along with Friends of Happy Valley Volunteers and Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councilor Scott Roche, unveiled the internationally renowned Green Flag award. This award recognizes the hard work that goes into well-managed parks and green spaces.

Happy Valley became the second park in the borough to receive the Green Flag, with Wandle Park regaining the award.

The award is the result of a huge team effort by council staff working with many partner organisations, volunteer groups, friends groups and contractors. It’s a very special one this year as Happy Valley received the biggest possible band in the scheme.

This open space is designated as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a National Nature Reserve (NNR). It is famous for its flora and fauna, including examples of nationally rare plants, yellow rattlesnake and many species of orchids.

Love Parks Week across the country celebrates parks and green spaces, encouraging people to visit them. Croydon has 127 parks and green spaces and plays an important role in helping residents and communities to stay active and increase wellbeing.

Wandle Park will have a flag raising event later in the week. The Green Flag award is official recognition that the parks are recognized as some of the best in the country.

“I am delighted that we now have two Green Flags for Croydon and would like to thank everyone who has put so much effort into making Happy Valley and Wandle Park such special places.

“Our parks and green spaces make Croydon special and it’s great to see them enjoyed by our residents of all ages. We work hard to make sure we improve our parks as best we can within our budget constraints.

“I hope lots of people will be able to get out there in the good weather this week to enjoy Love Parks Week, as green spaces play a vital role in boosting health and wellbeing for us all.”

Jason Perry, Chief Executive of Croydon