PROSPECT Park has been crowned Reading’s favourite park following a vote which saw over 500 Reading residents take part.
To coincide with last week’s Love Parks Week, the council counted down Reading’s top five parks as chosen through a public vote held in June.
Five residents introduced countdown videos last week on the Council’s social media channels to reveal the order of the top five parks and why they’d chosen their favourite.
Forbury Gardens ranked fifth, and was described as “the heart of the town”, just behind Palmer Park in fourth, commended for its accessibility and family provisions.
Arthur Newbery Park ranked in third, followed by Caversham Court in second, and with Prospect Park topping the chart.
Although Reading is largely an urban area, the town has over 100 wonderful public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces for residents.
Some residents enjoy their favourite park with their grandchildren and reminisced about playing there as a child themselves.
Others boost their mental wellbeing that peaceful and calm spots in Reading’s parks can provide, whilst plenty more use them to keep playing sports at our community facilities, football, cricket, basketball, tennis or simply doing a parkrun.
Karen Rowland, Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said: “Congratulations to our winner Prospect Park and all those shortlisted in the top five.
“The testimonies we received highlight how valuable our 100+ parks, playgrounds and open spaces are to our residents, and why we continue to invest each year in preserving and improving them for you.
“However you choose to use our parks – for relaxation, socialising, family time or exercise – this poll has shown how blessed we are to have such a great range of green spaces and play and open areas for you to enjoy, so please do get out and about this summer and see why the park users love them so much.”
She explained: “Our staff work hard to keep the parks in good condition for you, so please also do your bit too by binning your litter or taking it home.
“If you want to go even further you can help keep our parks, open spaces, footpaths, shopping areas and streets litter-free by joining our growing Reading Adopt Your Street (RAYS) community.”
RAYS offers support and free equipment to any residents inspired to do their bit to keep Reading clean for all, including litter pickers, 100% recycled plastic bags, gloves and hi-vis jackets.
There are options for individuals, community groups, businesses and schools, and the council provides all the equipment needed for those taking part.
More information is available via: reading.gov.uk/RAYS
