Redbridge retains Green Flag status for all nine award-winning parks

Published: 14 July 2026 Leader of the council and parks colleagues with a green flag award flag in Valentines Park

Redbridge has once again been recognised as home to some of the country's best parks, with all nine of its Green Flag parks retaining the prestigious national award. The Green Flag Award is the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, recognising sites that are welcoming, well maintained, safe and valued by their communities.

The nine Redbridge parks to receive Green Flag status are:

  • Claybury Park
  • Clayhall Park
  • Elmhurst Gardens
  • Goodmayes Park
  • Hainault Forest
  • Ilford War Memorial Gardens
  • Seven Kings Park
  • South Park
  • Valentines Park 

The achievement reflects the dedication of parks staff, community volunteers and local groups who help care for these much-loved spaces throughout the year. 

Redbridge's award-winning parks continue to benefit from investment that is helping more people make the most of the borough's green spaces. Hainault Forest has been transformed through a major restoration project, while Valentines Park remains one of London's popular spaces, with people visiting its boating lake, sports facilities, gardens and historic mansion, and having hosted The Antiques Roadshow in recent weeks.

Across the borough, refurbished sports courts, improved play areas and upgraded facilities are making it easier for residents to get active, spend time outdoors and enjoy their local parks. Refurbished and improved toilet facilities in many parks are also helping visitors stay longer and make a full day of their visit.
 
Councillor Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, said, "I'm really proud that all nine of our Green Flag parks have once again received this nationally recognised award. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our parks teams, community volunteers and local groups who care deeply about these spaces and help them thrive.

"Our parks are at the heart of community life in Redbridge. With the summer holidays here, I hope residents make the most of everything our parks have to offer. There are fantastic places to play sport, enjoy community events, spend time with family and friends, and make the most of the outdoors. We are incredibly fortunate to have these award-winning green spaces on our doorstep, and this recognition is something everyone in Redbridge can be proud of and enjoy."

This comes after Hainault Forest and Valentines Park received national recognition in the top ten parks in the country, through the People's Choice Awards. 

Redbridge is proud to be a UNICEF UK Child Friendly Borough, committed to making the borough a great place for children and young people to grow up. Our parks are a big part of that, giving young people safe places to play, be active, spend time with friends and enjoy the outdoors close to home.