Coronavirus: Northampton's parks remain open but public warned to stick to social distancing rules

Parks in Northampton remain open but people have been warned they must adhere to the social distancing guidance after reports of large crowds over the weekend.

Abington Park was just one where visitors were seen to be close together as the sun was out for Mother's Day yesterday (Sunday, March 22).

Meanwhile Salcey Forest reportedly opened its overspill car park to fit everyone in, with sights of large groups walking together.

Anna King, cabinet member for community engagement and safety at Northampton Borough Council, which looks after the borough's parks, urged people to be considerate.

“We’re advising residents to stay at home and follow government advice because it's absolutely vital in limiting the spread of the coronavirus," she said.

“At the same time, we understand that it is important to get some much-needed outside time.

"If people choose to go to parks, they should do this responsibly and follow the social distancing rule – keep at least two metres apart.

“We’ve cancelled or postponed all events for April and May, the aviary in Abington Park, toilets and trade points have been closed across all our parks.

“We are all in this together, although there are a lot of temptations out there, we absolutely must adjust to this new reality as we all play our part in stopping the spread of the virus.”

Daventry District Council looks after a variety of parks in the district, including Daventry Country Park.

A council spokesman said: “We recognise the importance of green open spaces to people’s mental and physical wellbeing, and council-managed parks in Daventry district remain open at present.

"However this situation will not last if people fail to follow the government’s advice on social distancing.

"Please continue to make use of our parks and open spaces to stretch your legs and get some fresh air, but ensure you follow the national guidance by maintaining a distance of at least two metres from other people at all times.”

Forestry England announced its forests, including Salcey, would be shutting its recreation facilities from today (Monday) but they would remain open on public highways.

"The most important thing for Forestry England is to keep the public, our staff and volunteers safe," a statement said.

"From Monday, March 23, we will close all recreation facilities in the woods and forests we manage.

"Please carefully reconsider any plans you had to travel. We will keep monitoring the situation closely and follow the latest advice from Public Health England."

Northamptonshire County Council, which looks after country parks like Sywell, is keeping them accessible to people for fresh air and exercise.

However, in order to restrict the spread of coronavirus, public buildings, including visitor centres and toilets, will be closed, the council website says.

"We ask visitors to follow recommended practice regarding social distancing and hygiene practices to minimise the spread of the virus," it adds.

"The playgrounds will remain open but we ask visitors to exercise caution while using playground equipment or furniture as they are not regularly cleaned and visitors should take their own precautions.

"This is a changing situation and we are following Government advice so please keep checking this page for updated information, especially before you visit any of our places."