EDINBURGH has been announced as the local authority with the highest number of quality parks and greenspaces in Scotland.
The capital’s 38 parks and greenspaces have been presented with the Green Flag Award for 2023, awarded by Keep Scotland Beautiful.
The City of Edinburgh Council maintains 35 of the parks, whilst the remaining three are looked after by the Friends of Corstorphine Hill, NHS Lothian, and Heriot Watt University.
The International Green Flag Award is bestowed upon parks and greenspaces that demonstrate excellent management and adherence to environmental standards. To make sure Edinburgh’s parks are kept to a high standard, each year the council checks all its parks and gardens using Green Flag Award criteria.
Culture and communities convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, councillor Val Walker, said, “I am delighted that 38 parks around Edinburgh have been recognised by Keep Scotland Beautiful and the Green Flag Awards scheme. The scheme recognises the quality of parks and greenspaces, their benefits to communities and the hard work of managers, staff and volunteers who keep them ticking over.
“Here in the capital, we are truly spoiled for choice across the city when it comes to fantastic parks and green spaces. Each different space has a unique character and significance for the residents and visitors that it welcomes.”
Jamie Ormiston, senior awards officer at Keep Scotland Beautiful, added, “Green spaces are so important for our physical and mental wellbeing and it’s fantastic to see such a wide range of parks and green spaces across the entire length of the country. I encourage everyone to make the most of them this summer.”
