By Anna Whittaker, Local Democracy Reporter
A library garden which was saved from development after campaigners won a battle with a council has been awarded Green Flag status.
Newark and Sherwood District Council had planned to turn the garden in London Road into a car park.
The authority eventually reversed a decision to fell four trees on the land in November 2022 following a long campaign by protesters, which culminated in a standoff with the police.
An independent report later found the saga cost the taxpayer £500,000.
The garden has since been turned into a haven for biodiversity and wildlife and can be booked for free by local groups.
The area has been named the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Garden in memory of the late monarch.
In the local elections in May 2023, the Conservatives behind the plans suffered a major defeat. The authority is now run by Labour councillor Paul Peacock.
He said during a full council meeting on July 18: “I am pleased to announce to the whole council that we have been awarded the Green Flag status for the gardens adjacent to Newark Library.
“Obviously that has been quite a journey but we should all feel proud that we have achieved that outcome.
“I am also pleased that the Government has given us permission to name the garden Queen Elizabeth Memorial Garden, which is a fitting tribute to our late Queen.”
Four parks were also awarded the Green Flag award – Newark Castle Gardens, Sconce and Devon Park, Vicar Water Country Park and Sherwood Heath Cockglode and Rotary Woods.
The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces.
Councillor Emma Oldham, Portfolio Holder for Biodiversity and Environmental Services at Newark and Sherwood District Council (Ind) said: “From wormeries to purple carpets of wildflowers, carefully crafted raised planters and captivating wildlife murals, this extraordinary sanctuary teems with life.
“Adorned with a living green wall and crowned by an exceptional Oak Tree, acknowledged as a distinguished finalist for The National Trust’s renowned Tree of the Year 2022 award, this haven stands as a resounding testament to the transformative power of community and council collaboration.
“Together, they have woven an inspiring tapestry of shared purpose and remarkable collective achievement.”
