Parents advised to read new rules before taking kids to play parks

The play parks are set to reopen on July 10 on a staggered basis as many of the 90 parks need to be cleaned after three months of closure.

The Council says there will be a focus on ‘user self-regulation’ with parents and guardians required to take responsibility for social distancing and appropriate supervision.

While signs will be up in all play parks reminding users of the new rules, parents are advised to read the guidelines beforehand so they are prepared and can pre-warn their children of the new rules.

A Council spokesperson said: “It may mean longer waiting times for equipment and advising them on how to practice safe social distancing and hygiene standards.”

Rules include only one family member accompanying a child.

Also everyone will be expected to wash and sanitise their hands before and after using a play park and children are asked to try not to touch their face while playing. Children in particular will have to be told to social distance from people outside of their bubble, and no eating or drinking will be allowed in any play park.

The spokesperson added: “While it should go without saying, if a parent or anyone in the family is unwell then no member of the household should enter the play park.”

Lord Mayor Kevin Savage, said: “We have invested a lot in our Play Strategy, so I think parents already know that we value children’s play, but we also value everyone’s health so it’s important that we all keep within the guidelines. Staying safe is everyone’s social responsibility. Following the guidance and being safety-conscious is the best way to protect your family and everyone else’s.

“While permission to reopen play parks is a welcome move by the Executive, I would remind parents that play equipment is shared, so there is still a risk. In an effort to minimise these risks, parents may wish to use wipes or PPE, which is great, but I would urge you to please bring your litter home to be disposed of there. During Covid-19 when the play parks were closed we were delighted to see that natural play in our parks and open spaces (by families in their bubbles) has increased across the Borough.”

Outdoor gyms, MUGAs, skate park and pump tracks are to open on July 10.

For information check out the council website armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/coronavirus/#leisureamenities.A message from the Editor:

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