Parks Go for Top Open Space Rating

10.52.43pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 23rd May 2007

Two parks in Milton Keynes are seeking the ultimate open space accolade by aiming to become "green flag" rated.

The scheme, similar to the "blue flag" rating for beaches, is run by the Civic Trust to identify parks that have reached the highest environmental rating for a community open space and have made them safer places to enjoy leisure time.

Key factors needed to win the award include allowing the parks to be accessible for people with disabilities, be safe and secure, use clear signage, have suitable planting, and be clean and well maintained, as well as actively involving the community in events.

The parks in the running for this honour are New Bradwell and Chepstow Drive local parks and landscape workers from Milton Keynes Council will find out if they have received the award next month.

Chepstow Drive local park covers four hectares and is located within the southern area of Bletchley on the Race Course Estate. The area was originally farmland - sections of hedgerow and mature trees are a visual reminder of this. The park has a pond, wooded area and playground facilities. Volunteers took part in a hedge-laying programme last winter and it is hoped the scheme will continue this winter. Guided walks including bat watching will take place in the summer. The park is also used by holiday play schemes and by the local youth centre to host events.

New Bradwell local park is a varied park including mature trees, open grass and children's play facilities. In the centre of the park there is a short length of waterway, connected to Loughton Brook. A wooded area surrounds the pond and is itself bounded by a number of large weeping willows. The park is a focus for events including an Easter egg hunt, and volunteers recently planted a small orchard. Wildlife watching can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Liberal Democrat councillor Douglas McCall, cabinet member responsible for the environment, said: "Milton Keynes is justly proud of its network of ribbon parks throughout the city. We strive to make these a central focus for the communities in which they sit, so seeking recognition for these excellent green spaces would be the icing on the cake."