Parks awarded Green Flag status
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Vale Head Park in Hemsworth has gained Green Flag status for the first time.
It is one of five parks run by Wakefield Council to gain the internationally recognised quality mark. Previously recognised Pontefract Park, Pugneys Country Park, Anglers Country Park, and Haw Park Wood have all kept their flags.
“Our stunning green spaces and parks make our district a great place to live and visit. We’re committed to maintaining and improving parks and heritage sites for everyone to enjoy and as places where we encourage nature to flourish.
“Thanks to all those who work hard to care for them, including friends’ groups and volunteers, whether it’s at the newly awarded Vale Head Park, or our other parks that have been flag holders for longer.”
Cllr George Ayre
Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change
This year Pontefract Park is recognised for the third time with a Green Flag and Pugneys Country Park for the fifth time. Whilst Anglers Country Park is recognised for the 17th time and Haw Park Wood for the 18th time.
The Green Flag award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.
As part of the judging process long term flag holder Anglers Country Park was praised for its excellent commitment to nature conservation.
Sites are judged on issues such how welcoming they are, their safety and security; how well maintained and clean they are. They are also assessed on how the environment is managed, its biodiversity, landscape and heritage and on its community involvement.
Find out more about the district’s parks and green spaces at https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/parks-countryside-and-outdoor-spaces/
For information:
The Green Flag scheme is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government.
It recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.
Any green space that is freely accessible to the public is eligible to enter for a Green Flag Award. Awards are given on an annual basis, and winners must apply each year to renew their Green Flag Award status.