Posted on: Friday 18 July 2025
A park in Cwmbran has become the latest public area to be recognised by the environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy.
Oakfield Flower Gardens in Llantarnam has become the ninth place in Torfaen to be awarded a Green Flag, which recognises environmental standards, excellent visitor facilities, and strong community involvement.
The areas which have been awarded Green Flag status include, Cwmbran Boating Lake, Garn Lakes, Pontypool Park, Blaen Bran Community Woodland, Fishpond Park Panteg, Forgeside Rugby Club Community Garden, Henllys Local Nature Reserve, and Llanfrechfa Grange Walled Garden.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment, said: “It’s always an honour to receive Green Flag status, and I’m thrilled to see another site added to the Torfaen list.
“Well done to the Llantarnam Residents Conservation Society, better known as LLARCS, for their commitment to maintaining and enhancing their local environment for the benefit of all. Achieving Green Flag status is well-deserved recognition for their work.
“Congratulations to all the community sites being awarded Green Flag status again. This is something to truly celebrate.
“The Green Flag Award is a symbol of excellence that reflects our continued commitment to creating safe, welcoming, and vibrant green spaces. These places are more than just parks, they’re sanctuaries where people connect with nature, build community, and boost their wellbeing every day.”
Now in its third decade, the Green Flag Award recognises well-managed parks and green spaces in over 20 countries worldwide.
Lucy Prisk, Green Flag Coordinator for Keep Wales Tidy, added: “We’re thrilled to see 315 green spaces in Wales achieving the prestigious Green Flag status. This is a testament to the dedication and hard work of hundreds of staff and volunteers.
“Quality green spaces play a vital role in the physical and mental wellbeing of people across Wales, and to be recognised as among the best in the world is a huge achievement—congratulations!”
A full list of award winners is available at www.keepwalestidy.cymru