Four East Devon green spaces retain prestigious Green Flag status

Four of East Devon’s most cherished parks and green spaces have once again been recognised among the very best in the country after achieving Green Flag Award status.

The internationally recognised Green Flag award, which celebrates well-managed parks and green spaces, has been awarded to Connaught Gardens and Peak Hill Slope in Sidmouth, Manor Gardens in Exmouth, Seafield Gardens in Seaton, and Seaton Wetlands.

Maintained and managed by East Devon District Council (EDDC), all four sites have successfully met the high standards required to receive the coveted Green Flag Award for 2026; a mark of excellence that recognises quality, accessibility, sustainability, and visitor experience.

The achievement reflects the dedication of EDDC teams, and the invaluable contribution made by volunteers throughout the year. Together, they help ensure that these much-loved green spaces remain attractive, welcoming, and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.

At Manor Gardens in Exmouth, the ongoing partnership between EDDC’s StreetScene team and the Manor Gardens volunteers continues to enhance the site’s colourful displays and planting schemes. Green Flag assessors commended both the exceptional horticultural standards and the commitment shown by everyone involved in maintaining and improving the gardens.

In Seaton, Seafield Gardens was praised for its sustainable planting schemes and seven wildflower areas that attract pollinators, which add to the garden’s appeal and biodiversity. The StreetScene team were praised in 2026 for the renovation and re-planting of the large rockery area and the sensory garden.

Meanwhile, in Sidmouth, staff and volunteers have once again been recognised for their efforts in maintaining the beauty of Connaught Gardens and Peak Hill Slope. Volunteers and EDDC’s Countryside department have worked with StreetScene staff over the last 12 months to increase the biodiversity of Peak Hill, and Connaught Gardens continues to flourish and hold community events, festivals, and weddings.

Seaton Wetlands has enjoyed another successful year. Managed by EDDC’s Countryside Team and supported by a dedicated volunteer network, the reserve has continued to thrive, hosting popular family-friendly events, improving accessibility through enhanced interpretation, and providing an important haven for wildlife, including its much-loved sand martin colony. The year also saw the submission of a major National Lottery Heritage Fund bid to help deliver the Wild About Seaton Masterplan, strengthening connections between the town and its internationally important wetlands.

Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC Portfolio Holder for Environment – Operations, said: 

“A Green Flag award is the benchmark international standard of green space excellence. Achieving Green Flag status for all four sites once again is a fantastic accomplishment and reflects the hard work, care and enthusiasm of our staff and volunteers. These green spaces play an important role in supporting wildlife, wellbeing, and recreation across East Devon, and we are delighted to see their quality recognised through these awards. My thanks go to everyone who contributes to their success, and we look forward to continuing to enhance our parks and green spaces in the years ahead.”

The Green Flag Award scheme celebrates its 30-year anniversary in 2026. The scheme is administered by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.