Victoria Park receives prestigious Green Flag Award for second time

Victoria Park has again been recognised as one of the best parks in the world.

Newbury Town Council first received the prestigious Green Flag Award in 2019 and Victoria Park has once again been awarded Green Flag status for 2022/23.

The award is the recognised mark of a quality park or green space and demonstrates to the public that the park boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is well maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.

Councillor Jon Gage, chairman of Newbury Town Council’s green spaces working group, said: “We are absolutely delighted to retain this award, which is an objective of the Town Council Strategy.

“Throughout the seasons and in particular during the lockdowns of the pandemic, Victoria Park has been an outdoor haven for residents and visitors alike.

“We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and we are pleased to have been able to bring a new attraction this year with the Newbury Adventure Golf, which has proved to be a real hit with families.

“This award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining the park to such a high standard.”

The Green Flag accreditation team noted that Victoria Park was very welcoming and an asset right in the middle of the town, which was accessible for everyone to use

The team praised the variety of diverse habitats in the park, with it containing the river, canal, mature trees and areas of longer grass too.

They also commented that there was lots for the public to do, with the skate park, bowls club, splash park, tennis courts and children’s play areas, together with good areas for walking and a lot of green open space.

Mr Gage said: “We are very proud of Victoria Park and the facilities we have to offer.

“We are excited for the future. With the new café facility on the horizon, the park will be even more of a special place to be.”