Sunderland leisure boss calls for drivers to stick to spaces as cars cause 'major health and safety' concern for children

The boss of Sunderland’s landmark leisure centre has called on drivers to avoid queuing for pick ups after fears for children trying to cross the road.
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Sunderland Aquatic Centre has issued an alert for people to use the car park after a rise in the number of vehicles lining up to collect people from its doors – the latest in a line of parking issues in the area.

Free parking is available in 770 spaces around the neighbouring Stadium of Light, with restrictions on match days.

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A photo shared by Sunderland Aquatic Centre following concerns about parking outside the complex.A photo shared by Sunderland Aquatic Centre following concerns about parking outside the complex.
A photo shared by Sunderland Aquatic Centre following concerns about parking outside the complex.
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Steve Dougal, the general manager of the centre, said: “Over the last few weeks we have seen an increased amount of cars parking down the side of the building for pick ups.

“These cars are parked in a dangerous position and are causing a major health and safety issue for adults and children trying to cross the road as it is very hard to see past these cars and other cars having to drive up the wrong side of the road to get past.

“We urge all customers not to park in these areas and to please use the appropriate car parks, even for pick ups.

“Our colleagues will monitor the situation and will be asking drivers to move on.

“Please make the area safe for all users.”

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This Saturday, May 22, Sunderland AFC will play Lincoln City in the play off, with kick off at 3.30pm and SAFC stewards to be on hand.

Aquatic Centre can use the green car park up to 1pm, with the last entry at noon, and after that drivers will be directed to the far end of the blue car park.

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