Bridgend County has once again seen several of its parks and green spaces honoured in Keep Wales Tidy’s 2026 awards, with Coychurch Crematorium marking a notable milestone after securing a Green Flag for the 17th consecutive year.
What was recognised
The county borough recorded a total of seven named green spaces in this year’s round. The awards highlight sites judged on standards such as maintenance, environmental management and community involvement.
- Coychurch Crematorium – Green Flag, 17 years in a row
- Bryngarw Country Park – Green Site Heritage Accreditation (one of 14 sites in Wales)
- Gnoll Country Park – first-time heritage recognition (joins a neighbouring Neath Port Talbot site)
- Maesteg Welfare Park – retained Green Flag
- Four community-run spaces retained Community Awards: Spirit of the Llynfi Woodland, Ogmore Vale Fire Station, Tremains Wood and Coed-yr-Hela
Bryngarw’s heritage accreditation recognises work to preserve and promote the park’s historic features; the site is managed by Awen Cultural Trust in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council.
“To see Coychurch Crematorium achieve its 17th consecutive Green Flag Award is a fantastic accomplishment and reflects the dedication of the staff who work so hard to maintain such an important site,” said Cllr Eugene Caparros, the council’s cabinet member for climate change and environment.
Context and county impact
The Green Flag sits alongside other national benchmarks and is now part of a record year for Wales: 330 green spaces across the country were recognised in 2026 as the scheme marks three decades. For local residents and visitors, the awards can offer reassurance about the upkeep of public amenities used for quiet reflection, daily exercise and family recreation.
Bridgend’s mix of council-managed and community-run green spaces shows different models of stewardship. Community Awards in particular acknowledge the role of volunteers and local groups in keeping smaller or specialist sites in good order.
Practical takeaways for residents
Those who use these spaces may notice continued investment and volunteer activities. If you are interested in supporting a local green space, consider contacting the council or the relevant friends group — many parks rely on practical help, fundraising and local advocacy.
| Site | Award |
|---|---|
| Coychurch Crematorium | Green Flag (17 years) |
| Bryngarw Country Park | Green Site Heritage Accreditation |
| Gnoll Country Park | Heritage Accreditation (first time) |
Bridgend County Borough Council and partner organisations such as Awen Cultural Trust now appear alongside volunteers who look after community sites. The awards underline both the professional maintenance of major facilities and the grassroots commitment that keeps smaller spaces accessible and well cared-for.
