As temperatures soar in the run up to the bank holiday weekend, Bracknell Forest Council is calling on people to be sensible about using parks and open spaces responsibly and safely.

Wherever possible people should start and finish their exercise from home and refrain from using their car. After changes to the government rules most borough council parks car parks are now open to support those who need to drive to spend time outdoors. The council needs public support to prevent a surge of driving to green spaces which has the potential to overwhelm car parks, block essential access and affect the normal operation of the highways.

Cllr John Harrison, Executive Member for Culture, Delivery and Public Protection said:

“We send our sincere thanks to all those people who continue to walk or cycle to their nearest green space, where it is possible to do so. Staying local remains the best way to support the NHS and the coronavirus effort. If driving to parks, people should only leave cars parked in a marked bay and shouldn’t queue in their car or circulate waiting for a space if the car park is full. The responsible action is to return home and try again at another time if the location is full.

“Please note The Look Out, including the car park and the facilities at Swinley Forest remain closed until further notice.

“We want residents to enjoy their time outdoors, but for everyone’s safety we are asking people not to gather in groups in parks and open spaces and to remain two metres away from anyone outside of their household to maintain social distancing. Dogs must also be kept on leads and any waste bagged and taken home if bins are full.”

The government has produced some useful FAQs about what you can and can’t do during the coronavirus pandemic.

PLACE, PLANNING AND REGENERATION

Bracknell Forest Borough Council, Time Square, Market Street, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1JD
T: 01344 352323 Minicom: 01344 352045 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk