Four of Rossendale's much-loved parks and gardens have received international recognition after achieving the prestigious Green Flag Award for 2026/27.
Rossendale Borough Council is delighted to announce that Stubbylee and Moorlands Park in Bacup, Rawtenstall Library Gardens, Whitworth Memorial Gardens and Hempstead Peace Gardens in Bacup have all been awarded Green Flag status.
The internationally recognised awards celebrate the high standards of care, maintenance and community involvement that make these green spaces welcoming places for residents and visitors throughout the year.
Portfolio Holder for Environment and Corporate Services, Councillor Adrian Lythgoe, said:
"Securing four Green Flag Awards shows just how far Rossendale’s parks have come. Our Green Spaces Team, volunteers and community groups put in an incredible amount of work, and this recognition reflects the pride people have in these places.”
"Each of our award-winning parks and gardens has its own unique character and offers something for everyone, whether that's a place to relax, enjoy nature, spend time with family and friends, or take part in local activities."
Rossendale's success continues to grow, with Stubbylee and Moorlands Park retaining Green Flag status for a sixth consecutive year, Rawtenstall Library Gardens receiving the award for the third-year running, Whitworth Memorial Gardens securing its second consecutive award, and Hempstead Peace Gardens earning Green Flag status for the first time.
Ward Councillor for Britannia and Lee Mill and Member of Bacup Pride, Councillor Andrew Walmsley, said:
"This is fantastic news for Rossendale and something we can all be proud of. Our parks and gardens are at the heart of our communities, providing welcoming spaces where people can enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature and support their health and wellbeing.
"I'd like to thank the Council, our volunteers and our community partners for their continued hard work and dedication. These awards are a reflection of everything they do to make our green spaces places that everyone can enjoy."
Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said:
"Rossendale has shown what can be achieved when parks are supported and cared for. As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard.”
"Congratulations to everyone involved."
The Green Flag Award, managed by Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, recognising and rewarding well-managed public spaces across the UK and around the world.