Multiple organisations were recognised as London received the first collective World Urban Parks Legacy Award, in recognition of the outstanding contribution to the preservation, management, and enhancement of its urban green spaces.

Organisations awarded include the City of London Corporation, Greater London Authority, Lee Valley Parks, Royal Parks, National Park City Foundation, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and London Legacy Development Corporation, and all 32 London boroughs. 

The accolade was collected on behalf of London by the City Corporation’s natural environment director, Emily Brennan, and executive director for the National Park City Foundation, Mark Cridge, at the World Urban Parks Annual Congress in the Netherlands.   

“This award is a testament to the City Corporation’s dedication to protecting and enhancing green spaces across London, often described as ‘back gardens’ by people with little or no outdoor space to call their own,” says Caroline Haines, chair of the City of London Corporation’s Natural Environment Board and West Ham Park Committee. 

“Open spaces across London are a vital resource, not only for biodiversity but also for the health and wellbeing of millions. This recognition is a tremendous honour and reflects the hard work of organisations and volunteers across the capital in maintaining these special places for future generations.” 

The World Urban Parks Legacy Award is given to organisations that demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation in urban park management, making a lasting impact on the community and the environment. 

The City of London Corporation manages over 11,000 acres of green space across London and southeast England, as well as more than 180 gardens.