Today the gates giving access to the car parks of Solihull Borough parks have been unlocked and people can now drive to them. This will be great for families with young and older members who did not have local parks within easy walking distance.

In line with government guidelines, park tennis courts are also open, where members of the same family/household can play. All other facilities, such as play areas, outdoor gym and fitness equipment will remain closed for the time being. Also remaining closed will be the skating areas, football pitches and multi-use games areas.

There will be new signage within all parks to remind and reinforce visitors of the need for safe social distancing. It is essential government guidelines issued on 11 May be followed - maintain a safe distance and be alert to what is around you to ensure you and other people, especially the young and vulnerable, are not at risk.

Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways, Cllr Ken Hawkins, stated ‘Now is the time to allow a small relaxation of restrictions and allow people to drive to our superb parks, 16 of which have been awarded the coveted Green Flag status’.

Cllr Hawkins urges people not to flock to the parks believing things are back to normal, especially at at time when new cases of Covid 19 are still being reported.

Cllr Hawkins continued ‘I know people will remain considerate of others and maintain the great discipline they have showed within the lockdown period. I thank them for their patience and I truly hope to be able to relax more restrictions in the coming weeks’.

Ends.