Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has been awarded nine prestigious Green Flags — the highest number the Council has ever received in a single year.
Presented by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, a Green Flag Award is the internationally recognised standard for parks and open spaces that deliver excellence in maintenance, facilities, and community engagement.
Hydepark in Dundonald made its mark in 2025, securing its first Green Flag Award and joining the ranks of the council’s other top-performing parks which include Billy Neill MBE Country Park, Moat Park, Moira Demesne, Bells Lane Allotments, Castle Gardens, Sir Milne Barbour Memorial Park, Wallace Park and Glenmore Parkland Trail.
Alderman Amanda Grehan, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council said: “Our parks play a vital role in supporting our communities, promoting physical and mental wellbeing, and providing spaces where people of all ages can come together, connect with nature, and enjoy the outdoors. They offer somewhere to relax, recharge, and stay active. It’s especially exciting to see Hydepark earn its first Green Flag this year which is testament to how investment, partnership, and community pride can transform a local space.”
Lisburn & Castlereagh boasts over 600 hectares of open spaces and offers accessible, inclusive, and high-quality environments for both residents and visitors. From its Park Life family programme to Park Runs, Mayors Parade and hugely popular Twilight Night events, among many others, these spaces provide places where people can enjoy the outdoors, events and connect with nature.
The 2025 awards also saw Moira Demesne receive a Pollinator Award, celebrating efforts to boost biodiversity and support habitats for bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators. The Little Green Allotments in Lisburn also picked up a Green Flag Community Award for its outstanding volunteer-led work in promoting wellbeing, sustainability, and community spirit.
Mayor Grehan continued: “A huge congratulations to our incredible Parks and Amenities Team volunteers and local groups — these awards are a reflection of your dedication, hard work and care. We’re proud to share this success with every single person who plays a part in making our green spaces thrive,”
For more information on Lisburn & Castlereagh's Parks and Open Spaces visit Parks and gardens - lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk