Sedgemoor District Council has this week reminded parents in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge that public play areas remain closed during the Coronavirus lockdown amid reports of several play parks being used.
There were reports on social media on Tuesday (May 19th) that children had been seen playing on the play equipment at Crosses Penn next to Burnham’s Manor Gardens and also at Highbridge’s Apex Park.
Claire Faun, spokeswoman for Sedgemoor District Council, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Whilst there has been a relaxation of the amount of time people can spend out in the open air and exercising, Sedgemoor District Council is reminding residents and visitors to parks and open spaces that use of play areas, playground and open air gym equipment is still not allow by Government rules. This is because it is impossible to keep the equipment clean between different children using it and to maintain social distancing.”
“There have been reports of children using the play areas in Manor Gardens in Burnham-on-Sea and Apex Park in Highbridge. It is possible that they have climbed over fences to get into the areas and some of the equipment is open-plan and spread out but there is barrier tape around the equipment and signs. A council spokesman said “We know it must be really frustrating to see all that lovely play and exercise equipment and not being able to use it, but we would remind parents and residents that the areas are closed for good reasons and to keep children and adults safe.”
“Under the guidance, you ‘cannot exercise in an indoor sports court, gym or leisure centre, or go swimming in a public pool; or use an outdoor gym or playground’.”
The council has posters and signs in place stating that the parks are closed in order to avoid putting children at risk of spreading or catching the Coronavirus.
