Solihull has cemented its reputation for outstanding parks and open spaces after two more sites were handed the prestigious Green Flag Award, taking the borough’s total to 21, the highest number anywhere in the region.
Widney Manor Cemetery, cared for by environmental contractor Veolia, is among the newest additions to the list.
To earn the award, the site had to satisfy strict judging criteria covering cleanliness, accessibility, biodiversity and sustainable upkeep. Blythe Valley Park, managed by Whiting Landscape Ltd, has also picked up the honour for the first time this year.
Every one of Solihull’s previously recognised green spaces has held onto its Green Flag status too, meaning the borough’s tally now stands at 21 sites, more than any other local authority in the West Midlands.
Cllr Ken Hawkins, Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said the milestone reflected the effort of everyone involved in looking after the borough’s green spaces.
“We are rightly proud of our green spaces, and for Solihull to obtain its 21st award is very special and testament to the hard work of our dedicated Council staff, partners at Veolia, and our local volunteers and organisations who work hard all year round to ensure they are safe, welcoming and beautiful places to visit,” he said.
He added that Widney Manor Cemetery’s success meant all three of Solihull’s cemeteries now hold Green Flag status, giving residents and visitors peaceful surroundings in which to remember loved ones.
Sue Cummine, Senior Contract Manager at Veolia Solihull, said the award was a reflection of the company’s efforts on the ground.
“This award reflects our commitment to excellence in caring for Solihull’s parks and green spaces,” she said. “Through our dedicated grounds maintenance service with Solihull Council, we take pride in maintaining the community’s cherished spaces, keeping sites like Widney Manor Cemetery beautiful and accessible for residents to visit.”
The Green Flag Award scheme, run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, marks its 30th anniversary this year. Across the UK, a record 2,391 sites received the accolade in 2025, making it the biggest year yet for the awards.
Solihull’s 21 Green Flag sites are:
Babb’s Mill Recreation Ground & Local Nature Reserve
Bentley Heath Recreation Ground
Blythe Valley Park
Castle Bromwich Historic Parkland
Damson Lane Park
Dickens Heath Allotment
Dorridge Park & Wood
Elmdon Park
Hillfield Park & Local Nature Reserve
Hope Coppice
Knowle Park
Lavender Hall Park
Malvern and Brueton Park
Meriden Park
Olton Jubilee Park
Palmers Rough Recreation Ground
Robin Hood Cemetery
Shirley Park
Tudor Grange Park
Widney Manor Cemetery
Woodlands Cemetery
