Four cemeteries and two parks in Manchester have retained their Green Flag status, with a further two being recognised by the accolades for the first time this year.
Manchester General Cemetery, in Harpurhey, has been awarded a Green Flag this year – the first in its history. No longer a working cemetery, the council said it had over time succumbed to anti-social behaviour and littering. However, thanks to the Philips Park Cemetery team, improvements have been made resulting in this historic first Green Flag award.
The Manchester cemeteries which have retained their existing Green Flag status are Blackley, Gorton, Philips Park and the Southern Cemetery.
Two of the city’s most loved parks were also recognised again, with Heaton Park and Wythenshawe Park retaining their Green Flag status.
The recently opened city centre Mayfield Park was also awarded a Green Flag, marking a significant milestone in developing more green spaces within the city.
Councillor Lee-Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods said: “The Green Flag programme is a benchmark for excellent across our parks and cemeteries and I’m incredibly proud to see that five cemeteries and two parks have been recognised this year.
“I am especially proud of Manchester General Cemetery in Harpurhey given the incredible effort and care put into it by my colleagues to bring it up to Green Flag status.
“Not only is this about caring and tending to an environment which allows people to remember and reflect, but also to experience and enjoy nature within our communities.”
- Words:
- Brad Lengden
- Published on:
- Tue 16 Jul 2024
