Riverside Park has again been recognised by the Green Flag award scheme as being amongst the best in the world.
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Both Riverside in Bitterne Park and St James’ Park in Shirley are among a record-breaking 1,970 UK parks and green spaces that received the award this year.
Both Southampton parks are unique in character, but according to Southampton City Council are similar in having fantastic community-led friends groups – the Friends of Riverside Park (FORP) in our case - at the heart of their management who work alongside council staff.
Cllr Jacqui Rayment, cabinet member for place and transport said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for our parks again this year."
“... All of our parks are enjoyed by both our residents and visitors; we know having these open spaces makes a difference to everyone. This award celebrates the dedication that goes into maintaining both St James and Riverside Parks to such a high standard."
International Green Flag Award scheme manager Paul Todd said: “It’s fantastic that we have more Green Flag Awards in the UK than ever before, joined this year by 131 International winners.”
Pitch and putt
Despite the award, the pitch and putt at Riverside has failed to open this season after its relaunch under new management in 2018 which was hailed by the Friends group as “absolutely wonderful” following several years of closure.
It’s understood likely that the council will now rethink the use of that part of the park for the future.
Coming up: Riverside Park - Monthly Litter Pick