To further encourage social distancing during the Coronavirus crisis, play areas in major parks across Cheltenham, including Pittville Park, Montpellier Park and Sandford Park, have been closed as of Sunday 22 March 2020.
The bright spring weather and start of school closures has meant that the popular Cheltenham play areas seemed well populated over the weekend, despite government advice that social distancing is the only way to avert a health crisis similar to that already witnessed in countries including Italy and China.
According to posts on local Facebook groups, some parents are exasperated that some families have seemingly ignored government advice to avoid non-essential contact – with parks like Pittville Park described as ‘busy’ over the weekend.
A statement on the Cheltenham Borough Council website said: ‘As we all work together to reduce the spread of #COVID-19 and protect our community, we ask everyone who is visiting Cheltenham parks and open spaces to maintain social distancing, keeping at least 2m from each other.
‘Where cafes in the park are open this will only be as takeaway service and we would ask you not to socially gather whilst enjoying your coffees and ice creams.
‘We have taken the decision to close all play areas to protect our community, especially those who are vulnerable.’
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