Parks and green spaces across Norfolk have been granted a coveted award.

Seventeen parks in the county are proudly preparing to raise their flags after winning a 2024 Green Flag Award.

The award is an international quality mark for parks and green spaces managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy.

Waterloo Park in NorwichWaterloo Park in Norwich (Image: Newsquest) The scheme was launched 28 years ago and rewards sites that meet the needs of the community, are well maintained, safe and provide people with the opportunity to lead healthy lifestyles. 

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In Norwich, the University of East Anglia, Eaton Park, Heigham Park, Jenny Lind Park, Ketts Heights, Mousehold Heath, Waterloo Park and Whitlingham Country Park won the award.

Nine of the parks that have been awarded Green FlagsNine of the parks that have been awarded Green Flags (Image: Newsquest)

Parks in Hunstanton, King's Lynn, Great Yarmouth, Holt, Sheringham and North Walsham were also awarded a 2024 Green Flag Award.

In addition, Eaton Park and Waterloo Park have also received a Green Heritage Site Accreditation for the management of historic features, supported by Historic England.  

The parks in Norwich that have been awarded Green Flags (Image: Newsquest) To achieve Green Heritage Site Accreditation, winners have to understand and take action to conserve the heritage value of their site.

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Catton Park, run by the Catton Park Trust Ltd, was recognised as a quality site managed by a voluntary or community group, receiving a Green Flag Community Award.

The Walks in King's LynnThe Walks in King's Lynn (Image: Ian Burt)

Keep Britain Tidy chief executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, said: “Prioritising parks and green spaces is vital for our future, so we are delighted to see that 176 sites in the East of England have met the standards required for a Green Flag Award.

“We know beyond doubt that our local environment contributes to the wellbeing of individuals and communities, with our parks and green spaces recognised as areas where people can come together and be active.

"Research shows that time spent in green spaces can positively affect mental and physical health, quality of life and a sense of wellbeing."