Today, we’re delighted to announce Carlton Marsh Local Nature Reserve have received their first-ever Green Flag Award, Elsecar Park and Local Nature Reserve have also been awarded their 16th Green Flag.
Carlton Marsh Nature Reserve is a core wildlife site in the heart of Dearne Valley. The nature reserve is home to many species of birds, mammals, wildflowers, butterflies, and dragonflies. The park is a well-known hotspot for birdwatchers, with a new bird hide, a picnic area, walking routes from Carlton to Cudworth, and accessible seating. Volunteers from the Carlton Marsh Wildlife Group volunteers have played a huge role in the management of the site since it became a nature reserve in 1976, from advising on major habitat creation schemes to day to day maintenance.
Elsecar Park is a favourite for visitors looking for healthy recreation, sports, play, and relaxation. The park boasts over 18 hectares which include a reservoir, nature reserve, Tee Cup café, a wonderful smoke-free play area, and a new toddler cycle track. Elsecar Reservoir Local Nature Reserve (LNR) one of the borough’s natural heritage sites is a popular spot for anglers and walkers with links to the Trans Pennine Trail.
Cllr James Higginbottom, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Highways said: "I’m extremely proud to hear we have one not one but two Green Flag Awards this year.
“These awards are a testament to the hard work of our Parks Team and volunteers at Carlton Marsh Wildlife Group and Friends of Elsecar Park who put in so much time and effort to protect these beautiful green spaces along with our Countryside Rangers and Neighbourhoods Team.”
Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd MBE said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Carlton Marsh Nature Reserve and Elsecar Park in achieving a Green Flag Award.
Carlton Marsh and Elsecar Park are vital green spaces for the community in Barnsley, bringing people together and providing opportunities to lead healthy lifestyles. The staff and volunteers do so much to ensure that it maintains the high standards of the Green Flag Award and everyone involved should feel extremely proud of their achievement.”
Find out more about our parks and green spaces.
