City Corporation rejoices in London in Bloom victories
The City of London Corporation has been lauded with five accolades at the 2023 London in Bloom contest.
This body oversees more than 11,000 acres of open areas in London and southeast England, featuring sites like Epping Forest and Burnham Beeches, in addition to about 180 smaller locations in the Square Mile, with an annual investment exceeding £38m.
A majority of these locations operate as charitable trusts, incurring minimal to no expense for the local communities they cater to. These spaces are home to critical wildlife habitats, Special Areas of Conservation, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and National Nature Reserves.
Golders Hill Park in Barnet, under the City Corporation’s management, clinched a Gold and was declared the top performer in the Large Park division. Both West Ham Park in Newham and Queen’s Park in Brent secured Gold distinctions in that category. The Hill Garden and The Pergola, situated on Hampstead Heath, received Gold in the Small Park and Walled Garden divisions respectively.
City of London corporation triumphs with multiple honours at 2023 London in bloom.
The London in Bloom recognitions, determined by seasoned evaluators, salute London inhabitants’ dedication to boosting the city’s green aspects. Each year, submissions are welcomed from local governing bodies, parks, community and friends’ groups, and schools across London aiming to elevate their local surroundings.
Caroline Haines, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Natural Environment Board, remarked:
“The honors we’ve garnered underscore our teams’ exceptional commitment throughout the year. We’re devoted to providing green spots throughout the city, giving both locals and tourists places of solace. Teaming up with local societies is key in this mission.” William Upton KC, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s committee for Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood, and Queen’s Park, stated:
“The distinctions are a nod to our continuous efforts in offering Londoners expansive green spaces. The announcement of Golders Hill Park as the leading Large Park is especially meaningful, remembering our dear late colleague, Declan Gallagher. These honors indeed highlight the dedication and passion our staff and volunteers pour into these green sanctuaries.”
Each year, the green spaces under the City Corporation’s care offset roughly 16,000 tonnes of carbon, which equates to about 44% of its annual carbon emissions. Specific laws ensure these areas remain untouched by construction.
