Visitors To Parks, Beaches And Open Spaces Reminded To Follow Guidance

Visitors To Parks, Beaches And Open Spaces Reminded To Follow Guidance

Members of the public are being reminded to social distance and follow the latest government guidance when visiting County Durham’s parks, beaches and open spaces.

In a TV broadcast on Sunday night followed by the publication of The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy, Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out how people can exercise as many times a day as they want, from today (Wednesday 13 May.)

Under the new guidance, people can drive to parks, beaches and open spaces irrespective of distance as long as they respect social distancing guidelines to remain two metres (six feet) away from people outside their household.

The new guidelines also allow people to meet up with one person from outside their household, as long as they observe social distancing.

Cafes and visitor centres at the council’s Hardwick, Riverside and Wharton Parks, and The Lodge visitor centre at its Blackhill and Consett Park remain closed until further notice.

Oliver Sherratt, the council’s head of environment, said: “We continue to welcome people to County Durham’s parks, beaches and open spaces but it is so important that when visiting them they ensure they are two metres or six feet from anyone who is not from their household.

“While people can now visit with one person from outside their household, again they must observe social distancing.

“We are pleased that we have been able to keep facilities open for use throughout the pandemic and hope people understand that cafés and toilets must be closed in line with government guidance, to slow the spread of coronavirus,

“We will continue to act in accordance with government guidance and will ensure residents are kept fully informed of any changes in arrangements.”

For more information, visit www.durham.gov.uk/parks.