GILLINGHAM is officially home to three of the country’s most well-maintained public open spaces.

This comes after the Shreen, the Stour and Lodden open spaces were awarded Green Flag status – an international award that is the benchmark for quality parks and open spaces.

Gillingham Town Council said it was “delighted” that the open spaces have received the awards, with praise given to the council’s grounds team and volunteers from Gillingham Action for Nature and Green GANG, who work in partnership to ensure these sites are well maintained, ecologically rich, and welcoming to the public.

Councillor Fiona Cullen, Mayor of Gillingham, said: “This award is a recognition not just of excellent grounds maintenance but also of our shared commitment to biodiversity and sustainability.

“Gillingham’s green spaces are more than just beautiful places – they are living ecosystems that support pollinators, enhance air quality, and help tackle climate change.

READ MORE: Calls to drop Blackmore and Sparkford Vale Hunt display at Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show

READ MORE: Plans to turn former Gillingham High Street florist into “relaxed” wine bar/deli

“I would like to thank our dedicated grounds team and all the volunteers who give their time and passion to protect and enhance our natural environment.

“These awards show what can be achieved when councils and communities work together to value nature and invest in green infrastructure for the future.”

The Green Flag Award Scheme, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, sets the benchmark for excellence in green space management both nationally and globally.

The sites in Gillingham are among 2,250 parks and green spaces across the UK to receive the accolade this year.

Green Flag Award scheme manager, Paul Todd MBE, said: “Congratulations to everyone involved in Gillingham who has worked tirelessly to ensure that the town’s green spaces meet the high standards required for a Green Flag Award.

“Quality parks and green spaces like these make the country a healthier place to live and work in and a stronger place in which to invest.

“The sites in Gillingham are vital green spaces for communities to enjoy nature, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis, they are a free and safe space for families to socialise.

“They also provide important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.”