Stanley Park named one of the best in Britain

Blackpool Council’s Stanley Park in is one of the very best in the UK – and that’s official!

Stanley Park received a Green Flag Award 2014, handed out by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, which recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country.

The award follows the recently received ‘certificate of excellence’ from review website Tripadvisor. The certificate has been awarded based on the quality of reviews and opinions that the park has earned on the website over the last year.

The three hundred and ninety acre Blackpool Park boasts beautiful Rose, Remembrance and Italian Gardens, water fountains, statues, Boat Lake, bandstand and the impressive Cocker Tower, a memorial to Blackpool’s first Mayor Dr William Cocker.

The Park proudly attracts interest to England’s finest examples of Art Deco design, the Art Deco Café is a unique historic restaurant offering spectacular views.

A brand new animal farm themed children’s play area aimed at 2-8 year olds has also recently opened, now one of the largest outdoor facilities of its kind in the North West

Cllr Graham Cain, cabinet member leisure and tourism, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for ninth time from Keep Britain Tidy.

“This award recognises the parks managers, staff and volunteers, who through their hard work have created a green space of the very highest quality for people in Blackpool to enjoy.

“Stanley Park continues to be a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike; it is a Grade II listed jewel in Blackpool’s crown.”

The Friends of Stanley Park play a fundamental role in the parks success – contributing by running the park visitor centre, helping with fund raising for park improvements, organising music in the park bandstand events and undertaking practical projects.

Elaine Smith, Friends of Stanley Park chairman, said:

“We are thrilled to receive the award again. This year the park is the busiest I’ve ever known it which is wonderful to see and I hope it continues. Stanley Park is the heart of Blackpool for residents and visitors – very fitting as the park is the shape of a heart!

“We still have a number of groups on the bandstand and events coming up throughout the summer for people to enjoy.”

A Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities.

Stanley Park is among a record-breaking 1,476 parks and green spaces that received a prestigious Green Flag Award.