Adapted from NALC’s Blog, Parish and town councils recognised in the 2025 Green Flag Awards, 15 July 2025
Over 50 parish and town councils across England have been recognised in the 2025 Green Flag Awards for their management of exceptional parks and green spaces. The Green Flag Award, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces. From coastal paths in Dorset to town gardens in the East Midlands, parish and town councils have shown they are at the forefront of protecting and enhancing natural spaces for local communities.
There are three types of award: Green Flag Award, Green Flag Community Award and Green Flag Heritage Accreditation. Find out how to apply and read the judging criteria.
Town and parish councils can access a free parks and green spaces resources hub, provided by a range of Keep Britain Tidy partners. You will find a range of best practice toolkits and templates to help you manage your open spaces and recreation grounds, including community involvement, environmental management and going pesticide free.
The Midlands saw a diverse range of winners from both urban and rural settings. Rushden Town Council, Kidderminster Town Council, Dunstable Town Council, Shefford Town Council, and Leighton-Linslade Town Council were awarded for their investment in accessible, inclusive spaces for growing populations. Blaby Parish Council, Overseal Parish Council, Wessington Parish Council, and Quorndon Parish Council stood out for their locally focused approaches, many involving community volunteers and sustainability initiatives. Newark Town Council represented market towns, leading the way in green heritage.
You can find the complete list of winners on the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) website.
Entry Requirements
To apply for an award you will need to provide the following information for all Awards:
- Site description
- Contact details
- Publicity information
In addition for the following Award types
Green Flag Award
- Management plan, direction and feedback to previous judging if applicable
- Invoice details and PO number if used
Green Flag Community Award
- Management plan
- Constitution of group
- Insurance documentation
- Risk assessment
- Financial statement
- Lease or written permission from landowner
Green Heritage Site accreditation
- Conservation plan or statement if not included in management plan