Plea to maintain social distancing at parks and coastal spots as restrictions ease

Nose's Point in Seaham is a popular spot with both visitors and locals

In a TV broadcast on Sunday night, followed by the publication of the Government’s ‘Covid-19 recovery strategy’, Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out planned changes to lockdown restrictions.

From today, Wednesday May 13, people can now exercise as many times a day as they want.

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

The new guidelines also allow people to meet up with one person from another household in a public place, providing social distancing is followed.

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

The council’s head of environment, Oliver Sherratt, 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

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