Recognition! Kingston borough has been cited in The Good Parks for London 2019 report as the most improved for its parks, and is now 19th out of 33 in the capital’s league table… up 14 places on last year.

The annual report, compiled by Parks for London, assesses all the work taking place across parks, to share good practice and improve quality standards.
It measures each borough’s parks against 10 yardsticks, including public satisfaction, events and community involvement. This year the report also focused on how parks can boost health and well-being.

Kingston Council launched its community parks programme in 2018, with a pledge to invest £1.3 million. Among the projects, the Victoria recreation ground, pictured, where the play area has been upgraded, and new trees planted alongside the diagonal path from the Victoria Avenue gate.

The borough has also been recognised as having an active and engaged network of volunteers. Between April and August, 775 spent a combined 4,068 hours helping out with maintenance and nature conservation tasks.

Cllr Hilary Gander, who speaks on the environment, said: “In just over a year we’ve climbed 14 places in the London league table. It’s testament to the fantastic work by both council and community and voluntary groups, to protect and enhance our green spaces for everyone.

“We’re now gearing up to review how we look after our green spaces and will be refreshing our wider strategy next year.”
For more, visit: www.kingston.gov.uk/communityparksprogramme

The new row of trees in Victoria rec