Although the government has now lifted the ban on opening play parks, this does not mean all play areas are automatically open – each local authority is obliged to do a risk assessment and be satisfied that it is safe for their own play area to be reopened. This is much simpler for parks in large towns and cities where the council has a workforce who can be utilised to keep equipment sanitised and monitor safe use of the park, for instance ensuring there is no overcrowding and that children are able to access equipment safely without excessive risk of virus transmission. In Millbrook, we do not have the staff to be able to safely open the park or deep clean the equipment as required at present and it cannot therefore reopen until the council has agreed it is safe to do so. We will keep reviewing the position and let you know as soon as reopening becomes possible, but in the meantime ask for your understanding and continued patience.”

Cllr N Roberts, Chair of Millbrook Parish Council