Laura Sharman 23 March 2020

Councils across the UK close parks to limit spread of coronavirus

Councils have been forced to close parks and other public spaces in a bid to protect people from coronavirus.

Following concerns that people are failing to practice social distancing in open spaces, councils across the UK have made the decision to close their parks.

Essex County Council, Carmarthenshire County Council, Leicestershire County Council and Hammersmith and Fulham Council are among those that have taken this decision.

Nick Rushton, leader of Leicestershire County Council, explained: 'It's with regret that we've taken the tough decision to close our parks. I had wanted to support the health and wellbeing of our residents during these unprecedented times. But people's safety is my priority. Put simply, if there are too many people in the parks, it's impossible to keep to the government's social distancing advice.'

Cllr Stephen Cowan, leader of H&F Council said: 'Our parks have been full of people this weekend with a significant proportion ignoring government guidelines on social distancing. This raises the serious likelihood of cross-infection. By closing our parks, we are putting the safety of all our residents first.'

Other councils across the UK said they are monitoring the situation and will take action if necessary.

LocalGov Weekly Round Up image

LocalGov Weekly Round Up

A pivotal week for councils sees fresh devolution plans, new service pilots and key legal and political battles, writes LocalGov editor William Eichler.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Safeguarding Legal Services

Redbridge London Borough Council
£79,119 – £92,538
And we are reshaping our organisation to be better equipped to have the greatest impact for our community. Redbridge, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Redbridge London Borough Council

Local Land Charges Spatial Data Officer

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Salary From £37,602-£45,564 Depending on skills,
Job Title
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Head of Litigation

Redbridge London Borough Council
£79,119 – £92,538
Redbridge is changing. Redbridge, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Redbridge London Borough Council

Head of Commercial Legal Services

Redbridge London Borough Council
£79,119 – £92,538
And we are reshaping our organisation to be better equipped to have the greatest impact for our community. Redbridge, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Redbridge London Borough Council

Youth Engagement Worker x 8 posts (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 5, £13.26 per hour
The Partnership & Engagement Team are looking for 8, part time Youth Engagement Workers. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council
Linkedin Banner