First ever Green Flag recognises work of volunteers at the canal
(Hanwell locks photos, Liz Jenner)
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The iconic Hanwell flight of locks has been awarded a prestigious Green Flag Award for the first ever time.
The Green Flag status, now into its third decade, is awarded to spaces that boast the highest possible environmental standards, are beautifully maintained and have excellent visitor facilities.
It follows months of work by the Canal and River Trust and local volunteers to intensify litter picks, paint lock gates as well as installing new reed beds in the water to improve habitat for wildlife such as grey crested newts, butterflies, herons and kingfishers.
The Green Flag covers a one mile stretch of the Grand Union Canal, encompassing the seven locks that make up the Hanwell Flight. Built over 200 years ago the flight is one of the most iconic waterway locations in Greater London.
Ros Daniels, Canal & River Trust regional director said: ''It's a testament to the hard work of our team, alongside a massive effort from our volunteers who do so much to improve the Flight. Green Flags are typically awarded to the highest quality parks worldwide, so this award recognises that canals offer places to relax, escape for a while and get close to nature - something we as a charity are dedicated to providing.''
(photos : Liz Jenner)
International Green Flag scheme award manager, Paul Todd said: '' It's fantastic that we have more Green Flag Awards in the UK than ever before, joined this year by 131 international winners. Each flag honours the thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award. We congratulate each and every winner on their fantastic achievement.''
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24th July 2019
