245 breathing spaces in rural and urban communities across England.
Recreation

Breadcrumbs

Introduction

When it began in 1996 the aim of the Millennium Greens initiative was to provide new areas of public open space close to people's homes that could be enjoyed permanently by the local community. They were to be breathing spaces - places for relaxation, play and enjoyment of nature and pleasant surroundings. They could be small or large, and in urban or rural locations.

Some of the criteria that had to be met were: 

  • The site to be held on trust as a permanent resource for the local community;
  • There had to be public support for the proposal and that it would make a substantial contribution to the life of the community;
  • Anybody may use any part of the land on foot, for informal enjoyment and play;
  • Local people must be able to reach the Millennium Green safely and conveniently from their home;
  • The community had to have convincing proposals for the long term management of the site.       

At the end of December 2001, 245 Millennium Greens had been created. They were all developed by the local people who had drawn up their plans, purchased the land, and carried out the work necessary to provide a local green space. 

Each Millennium Green has its own character - there may be trees, bushes, ponds, streams, a place where people can relax, children can play and everyone can enjoy nature. 

The initiative has brought local people together, has fostered a sense of collective achievement and boosted community spirit. The facilities at the Greens have had many social as well as environmental benefits. Some communities have gone on to be involved in other worthwhile projects. 

The successful creation of the Greens is a tribute to the dedication, hard work and commitment of local people. 

Funding of nearly £10m was granted by the Millennium Commission, and provided nearly half the cost of the initiative. 

The Countryside Agency met half the running costs and awarded up to 50% grant aid to applicants for site acquisition, development work and maintenance. 

Sponsorship contributions amounted to £300,000 from Bass and £100,000 from Garfield Weston. 

The rest of the funding was raised locally by the communities themselves. 

The Millennium Greens programme continues to be managed by Natural England with a network of Millennium Greens Advisers based in regions throughout England.