Hanley Park wins Green Flag award for fifth year running

One of Stoke-on-Trent’s best-loved green spaces has once again been recognised as one of the top parks in the country.

Hanley Park has been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award for the fifth year in a row – confirming its status as one of the best-managed parks in the UK.

The award, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, is the international benchmark for parks and green spaces. It celebrates clean, safe and welcoming green spaces that are well-maintained and managed to the highest standards.

To achieve Green Flag status, parks must demonstrate excellence in areas such as community involvement, environmental management, a variety of plants and wildlife, and accessibility to all.

Hanley Park has seen a surge in visitors in recent years, thanks to its stunning 60-acre grounds, beautifully maintained green spaces and ongoing investment. The park is home to over 1,000 trees, more than 30 species of animals and birds, a lake and a host of events throughout the year, including hosting major Centenary events.

A new solar-powered duck feeding station has also been installed at the lake, offering visitors a healthier and more sustainable way to feed the ducks and help protect local waterways.  

Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability for Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and a huge credit to the team who care for Hanley Park all year round.

“They continue to go above and beyond to maintain the highest standards and the Green Flag award is a clear sign of their dedication.

“Parks like Hanley are vital places for communities to come together – and we’ve seen that first-hand during our Centenary events this year. The park has seen record breaking parkruns, our Centenary bike ride on Stoke-on-Trent Day and there’s more to come.

“Congratulations to everyone involved – your pride in our city is on full display”

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said: “Congratulations to everyone involved in Hanley Park who have worked tirelessly to ensure that it achieves the high standards required for the Green Flag Award.

“Quality parks and green spaces like Hanley Park make the country a heathier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest.

“Crucially, Hanley Park is a vital green space for communities in Stoke-on-Trent to enjoy nature, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis it is a free and safe space for families to socialise. It also provides important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.”

Hanley Park will host more celebrations later this year as part of Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary programme - including the Hanley Park Family Fest on 27 September, marking 100 years since the city was granted official city status.

To find out more about upcoming events and the city’s Centenary celebrations, visit: www.sot100.org.uk