Hart keeps Green Flag flying
PARKS and green spaces in the district of Hart have retained the coveted Green Flag award for the tenth year in a row.
Elvetham Heath Nature Reserve, Hartley Wintney Central Commons and Fleet Pond Nature Reserve were named the award-winning areas of the international quality rating, which sets the benchmark standard for the management of outdoor spaces.
Being awarded the Green Flag is no mean feat. Green spaces are judged against a range of criteria from maintenance and cleanliness, environmental management and biodiversity, landscape and heritage through to community involvement.
The award is testament to the hard work of both the Countryside Service team and many volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain these sites for the benefit of residents.
Adam Green, Hart Countryside manager, said: “Over the past 10 years our Countryside Service has considerably expanded its portfolio and we are now managing around 18 countryside sites.
“I am really pleased that during this time we have managed to retain our prestigious Green Flag awards and hope to attain even more in the coming years for some of our newer country parks and green spaces.”
Cllr David Neighbour, leader of the district council, said: “We are so lucky to have such a rich tapestry of sites on our doorstep, all of which require different and careful management to keep them as they are.
“I want to say a big thank you to everybody who plays a part in safeguarding these special places, our countryside staff and volunteers.”
To find out more about these sites, including how to visit, go to www. hart.gov.uk/countryside-nature