Four East Devon parks win Green Flag Awards for another year of excellence

News Desk
Authored by News Desk
Posted: Friday, July 25, 2025 - 21:55

Connaught Gardens and Peak Hill Slope in Sidmouth, Manor Gardens in Exmouth, Seafield Gardens in Seaton and Seaton Wetlands have once again been recognised as being among the best green spaces in the country.  

All four sites, managed by East Devon District Council (EDDC), have achieved the prestigious Green Flag Award for 2025; the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.  

Connaught Gardens and Peak Hill Slope, Manor Gardens and Seafield Gardens are cared for by EDDC’s Streetscene team, while Seaton Wetlands is managed by the council’s Countryside team.  

The awards highlight the teams’ year-round dedication and the ongoing support of volunteers who help ensure these spaces are well-maintained, welcoming and full of life.  

In Exmouth, the Friends of Manor Gardens continue to work alongside Streetscene staff to maintain colourful and vibrant displays in the Gardens. Green Flag judges were impressed by the horticultural standard and team commitment. 

Seafield Gardens in Seaton has benefited from new expertise, thanks to a volunteer trained at Kew Gardens whose knowledge is helping to improve the Gardens’ sustainable planting and wildflower areas.  

In Sidmouth, the Streetscene team and volunteers from Sidmouth in Bloom have been praised for keeping Connaught Gardens looking beautiful, despite challenging conditions from rain, sea air and poor soil.  

Meanwhile, Seaton Wetlands continues to thrive under the care of EDDC’s Countryside team and volunteers. Over 100,000 visitors came to enjoy the site last year, alongside 52 school and educational groups. For the second year in a row, the site’s artificial sand martin wall successfully hosted breeding birds, with several fledging two broods.  

Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC portfolio holder for Environment - Operations, said:   “Thank you to every single person involved, from staff to volunteers, for keeping these spaces beautiful, accessible and thriving.  

"We’re proud to see four Green Flag Awards again this year and hope to grow this number in the future.”

The Green Flag Award is managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. It sets the benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces in the UK and internationally.