Date issued: 24 March 2020
Colchester Borough Council is closely monitoring the situation on Covid-19 and is following information and advice published by the Government.
In line with Government recommendations, the council has closed all its playgrounds and outdoor gyms across the borough with immediate effect.
All parks and open spaces in the borough will remain open, however.
When using our parks, we would like to urge the public to abide by the Government’s guidelines of either trying to exercise on their own or with members of their immediate family. Gatherings of more than two people will not be allowed.
We would also like to remind the public of social distancing and to ensure they keep two metres apart. If we use our parks responsibility, we can all play a part in limiting the spread of the coronavirus and maintaining the health and safety of others.
Castle Park will remain open, but operate with reduced opening hours, and one set of public toilets will also remain open for use.
Councillor Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Environment and Transportation said: “It is with a heavy heart that from today we must close our playgrounds and outdoor gyms for the health and safety of our residents. We all have a part to play in helping to contain the spread of coronavirus, and we appeal to our residents for their understanding regarding this decision. They will remain closed until further notice.
Councillor Mark Cory, Portfolio Holder for Strategy and Leader of the Council added: “Today we took the important decision to close the borough’s playgrounds and outdoor gyms. The borough’s many parks will remain open to enable our residents to stretch their legs, get some exercise and enjoy some fresh air. I would like to ask all our residents to abide by the social distancing rules when visiting our parks and to play their part in helping us combat the spread of coronavirus.”
Colchester Borough Council’s playground and outdoor gyms will be closed until further notice. We would like to thank everyone for their understanding in these exceptional circumstances.
All of Colchester’s public buildings remain closed to the public.
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Page last reviewed: 24 March 2020