UK’s Best Park

Stanley Park has been voted by the public as the at the prestigious annual Fields in Trust Awards 2017.

For the third year running, the UK’s Best Park Award, as voted by the public, celebrates the nation’s favourite park. This year the public nominated 360 parks in total from across the UK with over 15,000 votes cast.

Stanley Park beat off stiff competition from three other finalists shortlisted, which included Craigavon City Park in County Armagh, Roath Park in Cardiff and Rouken Glen Park in East Renfrewshire.

Designed by celebrated landscape architect Thomas Mawson in the 1920s, the park which boasts an Italian marble fountain, boating lake, bandstand, Medici lions, Italian gardens and Art Deco styled café, has scooped the headline award at the annual Fields in Trust Awards 2017.

Stanley Park is seen as the jewel in Blackpool’s crown, with a variety of attractions including a wonderful café, scenic walks, beautiful gardens and sporting activities for all.

Dedicated Blackpool Council staff, along with partners such as the Friends of Stanley Park and volunteer groups, work hard through all seasons to keep the park’s standards high.

Cllr Graham Cain, Cabinet Secretary for Blackpool Council, said: “We’re absolutely delighted our park has been recognised by the public as being the best in the UK and are so proud of the joint effort that goes into keeping it clean, vibrant and somewhere for families to enjoy all year round.

“Thank you so much to all of you who voted and to everyone who continues to care for our magnificent park.”

Now in their sixth year the Fields in Trust Awards showcases some of the UK’s best open spaces and shines a light on the efforts and achievements of the people whose tireless dedication ensures that these vital outdoor spaces can be enjoyed by the public.

Commenting on the UK’s Best Park Award 2017 Fields in Trust Chief Executive, Helen Griffiths, said: “On behalf of everyone here at Fields in Trust, I would like to congratulate Stanley Park. The UK’s Best Park Award is open to any green space regardless of whether or not it is protected in perpetuity with Fields in Trust.

“The people of Blackpool have sent a clear message that they love their local park and I hope that Blackpool Council will recognise this by working with us to safeguard Stanley Park as a place for community sport, play and recreation forever.”

For more information on Stanley Park, please visit www.blackpool.gov.uk/StanleyPark