Croydon Council’s parks service has been announced as the Biggest Improver at the biennial Good Parks for London awards event. The award recognised the changes and improvements of Croydon’s parks service over recent years.
Improving the borough’s parks and green spaces is a priority for Executive Mayor Jason Perry, as part of a wide range of Council-led programmes to restore pride in the borough.
The Council’s work to modernise grounds maintenance by accurately mapping its parks and green spaces was recognised. It commended the continued investment in improving and creating playgrounds and outdoor gyms – 16 of each over the next four years – as well as tennis courts, paths and community buildings.
Croydon’s partnerships with 54 Friends of Parks groups, conservation groups such as London Wildlife Trust, Citizen Zoo and Beaver Trust, and dedicated officers working with 3,000 volunteers were highlighted.
It is the second time that Croydon has been recognised for its improvement, after winning the Big Improver Award in 2024. The Council’s parks service is now ranked ninth, climbing from 24th place in 2024 and 29th place in 2022.
The work done on mapping the borough’s green spaces is already informing Croydon’s new Parks and Open Spaces Strategy. The information is also being used to support funding bids and prioritise investment in areas where limited green space access is accompanied by deprivation, climate vulnerability, poorer health outcomes or planned increases in housing.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry said: “We have made real progress in restoring pride in Croydon’s parks, climbing from 29th to ninth in London. This award recognises the hard work of our parks team, Friends of Parks groups and volunteers.
“There is much more to do. With 16 new playgrounds and 16 new outdoor gyms planned over this four-year term, we are building on that progress and delivering improvements residents can see and enjoy.”
Councillor Robert Ward, Cabinet Member for Parks and Culture, said: “Our parks have come a long way, and everyone who has helped deserves our thanks. We know there is still plenty to do, from improving paths and playgrounds to keeping our green spaces well maintained.
“Our mapping work will help us direct investment where it is needed most, make every pound count and keep delivering better parks for residents.”
