Four much-loved green spaces in Tendring have once again been recognised as among the best in the country after retaining prestigious Green Flag Awards for 2026.

Clacton Seafront and Marine Gardens, Cliff Park in Dovercourt, Crescent Garden in Frinton, and Weeley Crematorium have all achieved the internationally recognised quality mark, which celebrates well-managed parks and green spaces.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Green Flag Award, with a record number of sites across the UK receiving the award in 2026.

Damian Williams, Tendring District Council’s Corporate Director for Operations and Delivery, said the awards were a proud moment for everyone involved in caring for the district’s parks and gardens.

“These awards are a wonderful recognition of the care, pride and hard work that goes into looking after some of Tendring’s most treasured public spaces,” said Mr Williams.

“Our parks and gardens are places where people can relax, meet friends, enjoy nature and take pride in where they live.

“To see Clacton Seafront and Marine Gardens, Cliff Park, Crescent Garden and Weeley Crematorium recognised again is a real credit to our Open Spaces team, cemetery staff and the many volunteers and community groups who help keep these sites welcoming, attractive and well cared for throughout the year.”

The Green Flag Award is the benchmark international standard for parks and green spaces, recognising sites that are welcoming, safe, clean, well maintained and managed with their communities in mind.

Sites are assessed against criteria including maintenance, cleanliness, environmental management, biodiversity, heritage, community involvement and long-term planning.

Clacton Seafront Gardens first earned Green Flag status in 2009, followed by Crescent Garden in 2010, Weeley Crematorium in 2013, and Cliff Park in 2016.

Their continued success highlights the sustained commitment to keeping these sites at a high standard for residents and visitors to enjoy year after year.

Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Manager at Keep Britain Tidy, said: “Parks are essential public spaces that support our wellbeing, our communities and our economy. Yet for millions of people, particularly in the most deprived areas, local parks simply don’t feel safe or welcoming.

“With public services under pressure, investing in parks is not a luxury, it’s a practical, preventative solution and one of the most visible ways to improve people’s quality of life.

“Tendring District Council has shown what can be achieved when parks are properly supported and managed. As we celebrate 30 years of the Green Flag Award, we want every community to have access to green spaces like this that are safe, welcoming and maintained to a high standard.

“Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Find out more about the Green Flag Awards at www.greenflagaward.org.