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Liverpool locks in lifelong protection for all its public parks

A landmark deal guarantees every Liverpool resident a park within a 10-minute walk. Could this be the future for all UK cities? Fields in Trust pushes for nationwide change.

The image shows a crowd of people holding signs in front of a building, with trees in the...
The image shows a crowd of people holding signs in front of a building, with trees in the background. Some of the people are wearing caps and goggles, and one person is holding a sign that reads "What you allow is what will continue 2020 voter".

Liverpool locks in lifelong protection for all its public parks

A growing movement is working to safeguard the UK's parks and green spaces for future generations. Liverpool has become the latest city to secure long-term protection for all its public parks in partnership with the charity Fields in Trust. The move follows years of campaigning to ensure fair access to green areas across the country.

In 2019, forty MPs from five political parties backed the Parks Protector Pledge during the General Election. The pledge sets out six clear commitments for policymakers to defend, fund, and promote local green spaces. Now, with local elections approaching, Fields in Trust is urging candidates for the Scottish Parliament, Senedd Cymru, London Assembly, and English mayoralties to make the same promise.

The charity highlights that parks and green spaces are not evenly spread across the UK. These areas play a vital role in improving community health, reducing loneliness, and tackling childhood obesity. They also support the environment and offer opportunities for volunteering.

Liverpool City Council's new agreement with Fields in Trust guarantees that every resident will live within a ten-minute walk of a protected green space. This follows a wider trend: by 2026, over 250 cities and communities in Great Britain will have similar long-term safeguards in place.

Fields in Trust is also encouraging voters to question candidates about their stance on local parks. The charity argues that protecting these spaces is essential for public wellbeing and environmental sustainability.

The partnership in Liverpool marks another step in securing green spaces for communities nationwide. With more areas adopting long-term protection, the charity's campaign continues to push for equal access and stronger policies. Voters and candidates alike are being asked to prioritise parks as a key public service.

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