Gridlock traffic at Sunderland seafront as crowds head outdoors for Bank Holiday Monday

With car parks still closed, drivers parked on the grass at Seaburn’s Cliffe Park.

Traffic was reported as queuing back from Morrison’s at Seaburn to Roker Park at around 12.30pm on Monday.

It comes just days after police were called to a seafront venue advertising takeaway alcohol amid fears over social distancing.

Following a change in lockdown regulations on Wednesday, May 13, people are now permitted to travel for exercise, spend time outdoors – for things like fresh air, sunbathing and picnicking – and meet one person from another household outdoors, but from a safe distance.

Two-metre social distancing still applies in all cases.

Gillian Gibson, Director of Public Health for Sunderland, called on families to continue to stay home as much as possible, despite the glorious sunshine.

She said: “While the Government has recently revised the lockdown guidelines, the advice remains that everyone should stay home as much as possible to help control the virus and save lives.

“The Government has been very clear that if Covid cases continue to rise it may need to consider more lockdown measures so it’s really important that people understand the potential consequences of their actions on themselves and others.

“We would urge everyone to enjoy the bank holiday weekend, at home or near home if they can.

“Our car parks remain closed as do public toilets and there are no lifeguards on duty.”

Fulwell Ward councillor James Doyle added in a separate statement: “I am sure the majority of people have enjoyed the sunshine responsibly.

“However, it is deeply concerning some chose to use Cliffe Park as an impromptu car park.

“Cliffe Park is a recreational area, and I would urge all visitors to refrain from ruining such a treasured piece of green space in this way.

“Northumbria Police has been asked to investigate this matter further and I am also calling on the council to explore ways to prevent parking on Cliffe Park in future.”

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