NI council posts photos of cars at popular beauty spot after reopening public parks

Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council said it was issuing a ‘gentle reminder’ that ‘our parks are open for pedestrian access only’.

It was posted on their Facebook page with a photo showing cars parked outside Gosford Forest Park near Markethill, Co Armagh.

On Wednesday morning the council had lifted its ban on the public entering local parks, with strict guidelines, including pedestrian access only.

This morning, a council spokesperson said: “Residents are asked to please adhere to the social distancing measures and guidance in place, to enable all users to stay safe whilst exercising.

“All car parks are closed, and people are advised not to travel to parks at this time.”

The parks had been closed since lockdown and many in the Upper Bann area had voiced concern that they were not available to the public.

In a statement on Tuesday evening, the council announced that all parks will be open on Wednesday April 22 and with normal opening hours.

It said; “This decision has been kept under continual review in line with other councils and governmental direction, acknowledging an increased public awareness and adherence of Public Health Authority guidelines in recent weeks, and the longer-term health and wellbeing impact attributed to the extended period of lockdown.

“Access will be permitted with strict social distancing measures and guidance in place, to enable all users to stay safe whilst exercising. This decision to reopen the parks will be continually monitored in line with social responsibility adherence, in conjunction with the PSNI.

“As the Parks are for pedestrian access only, entrance can be gained through specific gates, and all adjoining car parks will remain closed. Under current national lockdown restrictions, it is important to note that, only local people walking or cycling to and from the parks should be using these areas for exercise.

“To ensure the safety of all users the following activities will not be permitted; social gatherings, sunbathing, sitting on public benches, BBQ’s, picnics, or group games.

“All play parks, caravan sites, outdoor gym equipment, golf courses, pitches and public toilets will remain closed. At this time, the council would like to remind residents that the Dog Control Orders will still be enforced, and owners are asked to please keep dogs on leads whilst in the parks.

To ensure the safety of council employees, users are asked not to directly approach council staff on- site at this time.”

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