Playgrounds to re-open following changes to Covid-19 restrictions

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Adults and children can return to using playgrounds and outdoor gyms from Saturday, July 4, following changes in the Government guidelines regarding Covid-19 restrictions, as long as new safety measures are followed.

Where possible and practical, the 37 council-owned playground and outdoor gym equipment will be re-opened for public use. Signage will be in place advising people how to use the equipment safely. These guidelines include:

  •  Do not use if you are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19
  •  Use hand sanitiser after playing on the equipment
  •  Do not touch your face or mouth while on the playground
  •  Children must be supervised at all times
  •  Please stick to social distancing guidelines
  •  Consider coming back if the playground is busy

This guidance is designed to provide users of playgrounds and outdoor gyms with practical advice so they are able to use the equipment in a way that is safe and minimises Covid-19 transmission risk.

In addition, the Government guidelines also recommends that users wipe touch points such as swing rockers, see-saws, machine handles or exercise bars, before use. It is encouraged that outdoor gym users bring their own towel and hygiene products and wipe down equipment after use too.

Parents should bring their own hand sanitiser gel or wipes to clean their children’s hands and are advised that the consumption of food or drink on play equipment or in the playground area is banned.

These measures are all designed to help keep everyone safe from coronavirus, protect the NHS and ultimately save lives.

Cllr John Chesworth, Tamworth Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Culture and Operational Services, said: “The re-opening of the council playgrounds and outdoor gyms will be much appreciated by many families, but we also need to ensure that we continue to follow the safety measures outlined in order to bring this virus further under control as quickly as possible.

“It’s incredibly difficult to keep children apart at playgrounds and to stop them from touching their faces after touching the equipment, so please ensure you supervise your children at all times and have wipes and hand gel with you. The last thing we want is a local outbreak so we need to make sure we continue to adhere to social distancing.

“We hope we can all enjoy these play areas safely and respectfully and continue to social distance and Stay Alert."