Several of Manchester’s parks, green spaces and cemeteries have been awarded Green Flag status for 2026.

The awards have long been the benchmark for excellent green spaces, setting the standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world, and recognising the hard work of staff and volunteers who look after them. In total, a record-breaking 2,391 UK sites achieved Green Flag status for 2026.

Seven of Manchester’s parks have been awarded a Green Flag this year; they are:

  • Alexandra Park
  • Heaton Park
  • Blackley Cemetery
  • Gorton Cemetery
  • Manchester General Cemetery
  • Philips Park Cemetery
  • Southern Cemetery

Councillor Basat Sheikh, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Come rain or shine our colleagues are out in our parks and cemeteries every day of the year, putting their time and effort into making them the internationally recognised locations they are.

“I’m deeply proud of their efforts and I want to dedicate the seven Green Flags we have been awarded to them. It’s no overstatement to say none of this would be possible without them.

“I also want to pay tribute to the volunteers who give up their time to support our green spaces. Through Friends of groups, arranging litter picks, or hosting community events we know that green spaces are defined by the people who use them. They have my deep thanks and appreciation for helping our green spaces thrive.”

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Tue 14 Jul
Words:
Bradley Lengden
Published on:
Tue 14 Jul 2026