The North East of England has received the fewest Green Flag awards compared to other regions in England, securing only 57 accolades. This figure is significantly lower than most other regions, which reported over 100 awards.
Northumberland County Council led the region with 14 awards, for parks including Alexandra Park (Cramlington), Astley Park, Bolam Lake Country Park, Carlisle Park, Castle Vale Park and Coronation Park, Doctor Pit Park, Druridge Bay Country Park, Eastwoods Park, Flagstaff Park, Hexham Parks, Hirst Park, Plessey Woods Country Park, Ridley Park, and Tyne Riverside Country Park.
John Riddle, the council member for environment, acknowledged the local appreciation for these parks and stated that the awards reflect the dedication of staff and volunteers, as well as a commitment to park improvement and preservation.
Other councils in the North East received the following number of Green Flags: Middlesbrough with three, South Tyneside with six, Sunderland with five, North Tyneside with eight, Hartlepool with two, Peterlee with two, and Stockton-on-Tees with two. Hexham received one award, as did Newcastle University and Groundwork North East.