Central Park in Peterborough is the place which makes residents feel most proud in the East of England according to an online poll.
A dozen local authorities across the East of England took part in the Connect to your Council Pride of Place poll by inviting visitors to click and vote for one of ten locally-nominated top spots on their websites. More than 36,800 people in England went online to vote for their favourite place in this first national council-led poll.
Central Park is described as a 'beautiful city centre park with paddling pool, sunken garden, sensory garden, aviary, bowling green, putting green, tennis courts, bowling, children's play area, picnic area, paddling pool, sandpit, formal gardens and the Buttercross Tearooms'.
Wayland Wood in Breckland and Nene Valley Railway in Peterborough came in close second and third spots. Just south of Watton lies the ancient Wayland Wood noted for its bluebells and its association with the "Babes in the Wood" legend. This ancient woodland and nature reserve, still managed under a traditional coppicing system, is also one of the best places in the country to see Golden Pheasant.
Steam and diesel trains operate along the Nene Valley Railway line to Peterborough, a round trip of 15 miles. The railway has featured in many TV and film productions including James Bond's "Octopussy". There are Thomas The Tank Engine events throughout the year.
Leader of Peterborough City Council, Cllr John Peach said:
"I am delighted with the results from the Pride of Place survey. Peterborough is a great place to visit with attractions to suit everyone and this just proves it."
Nationally the Neasden Temple (BPA Shri Swaminarayan Mandir) in Brent received the most votes with 2,344 people going online to register their pride. The temple is an amazing architectural gem constructed by skilled craftsmen from 2,000 tons of Italian marble and 3,000 tons of Bulgarian limestone.
Communities Minister, Parmjit Dhanda said:
"It was heartening to see citizens across England visit their local authority websites to vote for the attraction which makes them feel most proud of their own community. The poll was an entertaining introduction to the world of essential local information and services which are available on council websites. I am delighted to hear the Neasden Temple won the poll, it is an inspiring building of which the whole country can be proud."
The Pride of Place poll is part of the Government's 'Connect to your Council' campaign, which aims to encourage citizens to access their local authority services online - anytime, anywhere. People can now use council websites to find out anything from planning information to applying for school places.
