We are very pleased to hear that Martineau Gardens – a place NAEE knows well and really likes – has been awarded a green flag for 2016.
The award, now celebrating its 20th year, recognises and rewards the best parks and green spaces across the country – a Green Flag flying overhead is a sign to the public that the space boasts the highest possible standards, is beautifully maintained and has excellent facilities. Martineau Gardens is looked after by volunteers. Hundreds of school children visit the Garden to learn about science and the environment, and every year Birmingham people in their thousands visit the Gardens because of its peace and tranquillity.
Director of the garden, Caroline Hutton said:
“We are absolutely delighted to receive a Green Flag Award for seventh year running from Keep Britain Tidy. Martineau Gardens are a community-run garden that’s open for free to the public. This award is a tribute to the dedication of our volunteers who work hard to keep the gardens a beautiful and tranquil spot for Birmingham people to come and relax in.”
NAEE Executive Chair, Nina Hatch, said:
“On behalf of the National Association for Environmental Education I would like to congratulate Martineau Gardens for gaining yet another Green Flag quality mark. I know these awards help to raise your profile, but it must also be gratifying for all your staff, both paid and volunteers, who strive all year round to maintain a very special environment in the heart of the City. It is such a wonderful example of how gardening, education & mental health therapy can work together to create a haven for wildlife as well as food production. The Gardens are one of the designated Birmingham centres where schools can use an NAEE/Kenrick Fund grant to pursue their outdoor environmental education.”
…………………………
The Green Flag Awards Scheme is run by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, under licence from the Department of Communities and Local Government, in partnership with Keep Scotland Beautiful, Keep Wales Tidy and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, the Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens and the National Housing Federation.