Concerns over safety at Northampton skatepark after more than 100 people seen 'ignoring coronavirus rules'

Concerns have been raised over the safety of a Northampton skatepark after more than 100 people were seen not adhering to coronavirus rules over the weekend.

Many teenagers and young adults were spotted with no apparent care for social distancing at Radlands Plaza on Bedford Road on Saturday and Sunday.

No breaches have been found by police after 'a couple of reports from members of the public' but no one has reported seeing gatherings of more than six people in one group.

But an eye-witness told the Chronicle & Echo: "It was rammed. People were touching all the time and there must have been 100 people there, I couldn't see down the back so it could have been more.

"No one was wearing masks or social distancing, they were all cuddling and touching as teenagers and young adults do. There were no marshals or control whatsoever."

The bemused witness described Radlands Plaza as 'like Brighton beach in the middle of summer' as they drove past on both days and believes it should be closed.

"There must be some loophole where hundreds of kids can mix when some areas of country can't meet their relatives - it's ridiculous," they added.

"It's shocking and it needs to be shut down - no wonder Northampton is on the worst parts of the country for coronavirus cases.

A Northamptonshire Police spokesperson said: "We have had a couple of reports from members of the public regarding the skate park however no breaches have been identified as yet.

"Outdoor areas such as this are allowed to be open and no one has reported there being gatherings of more than six people attending in one group."

Northampton Borough Council, which owns the skatepark, and the skatepark management have been contacted for comment.