ONE OF Readings historic parks has been bestowed with a prestigious award and accreditation recognising its wildlife practises and sustainability.
Caversham Court Gardens has been given the Green Flag Award and granted Green Heritage Accreditation for 2023.
The Green Flag award recognises high-quality maintenance and excellent wildlife and climate-friendly practices, with winners having to demonstrate that standards are being maintained and continuous improvements are being achieved.
Green Heritage Accreditation denotes parks which have conserved their historical features to a high standard and maintained historic character and appearance.
Caversham Court Gardens is one of only 17 to have received the accreditation in the South East this year.
The news comes in the midst of Love Parks Week, which celebrates the green spaces and public parks, as well as the volunteers and workers who maintain them.
The council is also encouraging residents to help keep Reading’s parks and green spaces in shape, including reminding attendees to make use of public bins to avoid litter.
Those looking to volunteer can also join the Reading: Adopt Your Street (RAYS) program, in which individuals or groups can select a street, path, or shopping area to keep tidy with regular clean-up efforts.
The program helps those taking part by providing them with equipment such as bags. gloves, and litter pickers via Reading Borough Council
Karen Rowland, lead councillor for environmental services and community safety, said: “I am thrilled that Caversham Court Gardens has again been recognised for its excellence.
“It is testimony to the work of our Parks team who keep it, and all of Reading’s parks, in such good condition.”
She explained: “We are very fortunate that despite being a dense urban area we have over 50 wonderful parks and open spaces for residents to enjoy, and with this week being Love Parks Week we’re encouraging you all to get out and explore some of the great greenery and places around the borough that you can enjoy.”
The Green Flag Award scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, under license from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
More information about the Reading: Adopt Your Street scheme is available via: reading.gov.uk
More information about Love Parks Week is available via: keepbritaintidy.org/get-involved
