Date issued: 31 March 2020
Colchester Borough Council has closed car parks at its parks and countryside sites to motorists with immediate effect, except, the car park at Old Heath Recreation Ground (Port Lane entrance) which can be continued to be used by resident permit holders only.
The decision to close the car parks has been taken in line with Government guidelines asking people to stay at home, to protect lives and help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Over the past few days, the council has noticed a high number of people still driving to use the parks, so this decision has been taken to protect the residents of Colchester.
Residents, under the guidelines, are permitted to go out once a day for some fresh air and exercise. Government advice is to stay local and use open spaces near to home where possible.
The parks, however, will remain open to the public. When using our parks, we ask that residents abide by the Government’s guidelines of social distancing and remain two metres apart from others. Gatherings of more than two people will be asked to disperse.
All other Colchester Borough Council car parks remain open. Please check the website for further details www.colchester.gov.uk/parking
Councillor Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Environment and Transportation, said: “It is necessary that we close our car parks across the borough’s parks and country sites for public safety. Communities across the country are rallying together at this rather extraordinary time, and we appeal to the public for their understanding with this decision.
“For residents living close to one of the boroughs parks or country sites, they are still open to enjoy. We simply ask that you do not get in your car to travel to these sites. If we all work together, we can all play a part in stopping the spread of coronavirus.
“Please remember to adhere to social distancing when using the parks for the enjoyment of everyone.”
For further information about the Council’s response to coronavirus please visit www.colchester.gov.uk/coronavrius
Stay at Home, Protect the NHS, Save Lives
Page last reviewed: 31 March 2020