Bollington Rec is ‘much-loved’

Bollington Recreation Ground has scooped a top award in recognition of its ‘much-loved’ status and excellence.

The site is one of just 73 parks and green spaces across the UK which has achieved a ‘Much Loved’ status in the Fields in Trust UK’s Best Park Awards 2019. The award recognises the support of people who love their local parks – and which have been placed in the top 20 per cent of all votes across the UK.

The UK’s Best Park Award recognises the role that parks play in our communities, supporting mental and physical health and bringing people together. The scheme is organised by green space charity Fields in Trust which, for more than 90 years, has protected parks and green spaces, ensuring they will always be available for future generations to enjoy.

A record 364 nominations were received for UK’s Best Park 2019. Bollington Recreation Ground was one of 55 parks nominated in the North West region and one of the 11 winners.

Those nominations were supported by park users, communities, friends of parks groups, and landowners and an unprecedented total of 36,832 votes were cast for parks and green spaces across the UK.

Bollington Recreation Ground has a rich history dating back to 1901. Today, the facilities allow people to enjoy a range of activities – whether as a beautiful open space for a walk, or a place for children to let off steam in the modern play area or skate park.

The local community can also play cricket, tennis, football or crown green bowling. It is a great place for everyone.

Councillor Brian Roberts, Cheshire East Council cabinet member with responsibility for green spaces, said: “This is fantastic news for Bollington Recreation Ground and for the residents that use its facilities. The ground was awarded Green Flag status as a winning site in 2008/2009. This ‘much-loved’ status further exemplifies how well-loved the recreation ground is.  

 “The park encourages a healthy lifestyle, gives users an appreciation of nature, allows the enjoyment of entertaining activities, increases community spirit and acts as a place for tranquil reflection.”

Fields in Trust chief executive Helen Griffiths said: “We received a record number of 364 nominations for local parks and green spaces across the UK – each one setting out what is special about their own green space.

“Public support has been unprecedented with 36,832 votes cast demonstrating that people really do love their local parks. Congratulations to the regional winners and the parks who have been identified as a ‘Much Loved’ part of their local community.