Recently I cycled to the three Podsmead play areas – Scott Avenue, Milton Avenue and Tuffley Park.

I had received reports that the play areas were still being used and wanted to check that there were signs up. I was able to confirm that there are signs up at all three areas.

I have, though, asked the council to put some more up as there are only a few in some areas, particularly the Milton Avenue area. I also asked why there weren’t signs up on the Scott Avenue basketball court and was told that following the latest government advice, basketball courts can be used by family groups plus one other person as long as they socially distance.

Official guidance remains that parks are open but the play equipment is not. Covid-19 can remain on surfaces, particularly metal, for several days, so it is a risk to use the play equipment.

As Gloucester City Council manages over 200 play areas it is virtually impossible to police them adequately.

We have to rely on the public using their common sense, and sharing the message that the parks can be used but not the play areas.

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