Southside sets the standard for parklife

Pollok Country, Bellahouston and Linn parks in Glasgow, as well as Rouken Glen Park in East Renfrewshire, have been been awarded the prestigious Green Flag after being assessed by judges on a number of criteria, including safety, cleanliness and community involvement.

Carole Noble, head of environmental services for Keep Scotland Beautiful, told The Extra:“This is great news for Glasgow and East Renfrewshire, with the parks rightly being awarded for their quality and for the fun and tranquillity they offer to residents and visitors alike.

“We’re very proud of the councils, the park managers, and particularly of the local volunteers who work all year round in rain or shine to make these parks popular with young and old, resident and visitors.”

East Renfrewshire council’s environment convener, councillor Vincent Waters, added: “There has been a lot going on in Rouken Glen Park over the past few months with the refurbishment on the visitors centre well underway as well as the opening of the Boathouse Cafe.

“The recent excellent weather has attracted thousands of visitors from all over the west of Scotland and beyond, to enjoy the park’s many attractions — including its wide open spaces, walled garden, skateboard park, boating pond and waterfall.”

Back in Glasgow, Linn Park is set to fly the flag for the very first time.

Councillor Alistair Watson, executive member for land and environmental services at Glasgow city council, said: “We are pleased that eight of Glasgow’s best loved parks have been recognised and rewarded with the Green 
Flags.

“It’s great that our efforts at Linn Park have also attained Green Flag status.

“Recreational areas play an important role in the health and well-being of the city.”