One of Abergavenny’s most-loved green spaces recently celebrated the achievement of being awarded Green Flag status.

The Green Flag Award recognises well-managed parks and green spaces and is regarded as the international quality benchmark for recreational outdoor spaces.

The event, which was held on August 13, commemorated the end of the Brilliant Basics Project, funded by the Welsh Government, which has delivered the investment in Linda Vista Gardens.

This includes the development of a new conservation area and research into the former owners of Linda Vista House and its gardens. A key factor in the award was also noted as the “strong” partnership between Monmouthshire Council, Friends of Linda Vista Garden, Abergavenny Town Council and others committed to seeing the park flourish.

“Linda Vista Gardens is a very special place for Abergavenny,” said Cllr Catrin Maby, Monmouthshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment.

“This recognition is a tribute to everyone who has helped care for it over many years. I would particularly like to thank the Friends of Linda Vista Gardens, alongside our partners and stakeholders, whose commitment and hard work have made such an important difference.”

“The Green Flag Award reflects the strength of partnership working and recognises the collective effort that goes into protecting and enhancing this beautiful space for residents, visitors and wildlife.”

The project has restored views across Castle Meadow towards the Blorenge and Little Skirrid, created new planting areas, and introduced interpretation panels to help visitors explore the gardens’ history, trees and landscape.

The celebration brought together volunteers, contractors, council staff and project partners who contributed to the improvement works.The Green Flag was raised by Owen Derbyshire, Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy, alongside volunteers, town and community councillors, grounds staff and invited guests.