London Mayor announces first-ever park city week

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, announced the first ever National Park City Week. The week will celebrate the capitals green environment and help encourage people to make it greener.

Commencing on the 21st – 29th of July, the mayor hopes to launch a range of outdoor activities in the capital including guided walks, food growing talks, and community clean-ups.

The mayor is hoping to make 50 per cent of London green by 2050, declaring it a National Park City.

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Sadiq Khan said: “London boasts an incredible array of green spaces that I want to protect and improve as we aim to become the world’s first National Park City

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“I urge community groups and Londoners to help me by getting involved in National Park City Week. Host an event or get out and explore your local area – whether it be a woodland, a community garden or one of our fantastic Royal Parks, there’s something for everyone.”

Earlier this year, Sadiq Khan pledged an extra £6 million to help increase green spaces and reduce plastic waste in the capital. He has also set aside £9 million towards the Greener City Fund to help improve local parks and help plant trees.

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Leah McNally, from the London Wildlife Trust said: “Nature is an essential part of our city; with countless Londoners able to enjoy and benefit from the capital’s natural green spaces - and the amazing 13,000 wild animals and plants with which we share our city.”

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If Sadiq Khan succeeds London will be the first ever National Park City. London is home to around 8.3millon trees and has 144 Local Nature reserves already within its boundaries.

A spokesperson for Natural England, who are the governments advisors for environmental spaces and oversee the decision, said: “It will be granted the title due to its natural beauty and the opportunities it offers to residents for outdoor spaces and activities. Wildlife and cultural heritage will also be looked at.”

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According to Greater London National Park City, 85% of Londoners think striving for City Park status is an innovative idea, with 84% saying the mayor should support it. Through their campaign they have now recruited the support of 1,000 local and regional politicians and are “delighted” to have the Mayor of London on board.

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Get involved and use the #NationalParkCity to let people know about activities or events going on in London.