Glendale Celebrates Lewisham’s Continued Green Flag Success!

Here at Glendale, we’re bursting with pride! Lewisham now holds 19 prestigious Green Flag Awards- retaining previous awards as well as two additional green spaces now joining this elite list! All thanks to our hardworking grounds maintenance teams over in Lewisham, we’re beyond proud of them for showcasing just how passionate Glendale is about green spaces and how we contribute to the community.

The two new parks to be awarded a Green Flag Award include Forster Memorial Park and St Mary’s Church!

Forster Memorial Park: A Beacon of Remembrance and Recreation

Tucked away in Downham, Forster Memorial Park stands as a testament to history and community spirit. Formerly woodland, it transformed into a memorial garden honouring the brave sons of Lord Foster who lost their lives in World War II. Today, this park is not just a place of remembrance but a hub of activity and community engagement.

From its outdoor gym that sees dedicated fitness enthusiasts come rain or shine, to the play areas echoing with the delightful laughter of children, Forster Memorial Park is a living, breathing space of joy. Football enthusiasts can rejoice at the two full-sized pitches, while those seeking a leisurely day out can enjoy a serene cycling route or indulge at the café.

St Mary’s Church: An Oasis in the Heart of Lewisham

If you haven’t yet visited St Mary’s Church, you’re in for a treat. Situated amidst the lively Lewisham High Street, this green space is a refreshing pause from urban life. Thanks to the combined efforts of the Ladywell Unit and St Mary’s Church in 2017, a therapeutic garden was birthed, aiming to nurture mental well-being.

Nature lovers will be delighted by its wildflower meadow, and those with a fondness for gardening can marvel at the raised beds, abundant with fresh vegetables and salads. The woodland area stands as a quiet sanctuary, while the orchard invites visitors for a seasonal treat. And if you’re looking to roll up your sleeves and get involved, drop-in gardening sessions are hosted every Tuesday between 1 pm and 3 pm.

Acknowledgements and Thanks

We couldn’t possibly talk about this achievement without mentioning the individuals and teams behind it. Cllr Andre Bourne aptly encapsulated our sentiments, saying, “The news that two more green spaces in Lewisham have achieved Green Flags is testament to the hard work and dedication of the teams that make our green spaces sanctuaries that everyone can enjoy.”

Paul Todd from Keep Britain Tidy echoed similar sentiments, recognising these green spaces as essential community hubs that “bring people together and provide opportunities to lead healthy lifestyles.”

We at Glendale are honoured to be partners in this journey. A hearty thank you to every single Glendale team member, volunteer, and all who have worked tirelessly to maintain, nurture, and champion these spaces.

Glendale helps manage 47 parks, 5 churchyards and 15 nature reserves in the borough, all with their unique requirements when it comes to grounds maintenance. Lewisham Council echoes Glendale’s goal of boosting biodiversity and focusing on community involvement, which is exactly why we work so well together.

To all Lewisham residents and visitors, these green spaces are yours to cherish and enjoy. Together, let’s continue to make Lewisham a green heart in the midst of urban sprawl.

Cheers to more Green Flags waving high in our future!