The Drake’s Place Gardens and Reservoir at the University of Plymouth have received the prestigious Green Flag Award for the third year running.
Awarded by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, the accolade is a mark of quality, and has been awarded to a record-breaking 1,797 parks and green spaces throughout the UK.
This international award, now into its third decade, is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible environmental standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent visitor facilities.
Drake’s Place was reopened in June 2014 following a £1.4million restoration project completed with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery Fund and the University, with support from the Friends of Drake’s Place Association.
Based at the heart of the city, it hosts a lively programme of events each year including community days, craft fairs, art workshops, storytelling and performances.
Nicole Broadhurst, Drake’s Place Community Engagement Officer at the University of Plymouth, said:
"We are absolutely thrilled to receive a Green Flag Award for the third year running. We know how much quality green spaces matter to residents and visitors, and this award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining Drake’s Place to such a high standard. This latest award is wonderful for the University and the wider public, who recognise Drake’s Place as having a special place in the city’s heart, and we look forward to welcoming more people in over the summer and beyond.”
International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said:
“We are delighted to be celebrating another record-breaking year for the Green Flag Award scheme. Each flag is a celebration of the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. The success of the scheme, especially in these challenging times, demonstrates just how much parks matter to people.”
