It is promising to be another sunny weekend in Ealing, but local people are urged to continue to stay home and save lives as the borough works to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Ealing Council is once again asking residents to avoid local parks, green spaces and nature reserves unless absolutely necessary, and to practice social distancing should they visit as part of the rules on daily exercise.
Residents are reminded that gathering in groups, team sports, sunbathing, picnics, BBQs and sitting on the grass or bench for long periods is not permitted. If anyone does decide to use a local parks for daily exercise they must ensure they stick to the government’s social distancing advice.
Playgrounds, outdoor gyms, tennis courts, skate parks, as well as other park facilities in the borough have been closed and additional fencing around such equipment has been installed in some locations. Further signage reminding local people of the rules has been introduced.
There has been an increase in patrols of the borough’s 146 parks and open spaces by Parkguard and Kingdom officers, and park rangers. These patrols will be in place to offer guidance and advice about the government’s rules, with enforcement the responsibility of the police.
Car parks across local green spaces and parks in Ealing are closed to ensure that people avoid travelling longer distances by car.
Dogs should be kept on leads at all times in accordance with the Mayor of London’s rules on stopping the spread of Covid-19.
Cycling and jogging and walking should be done alone or with members of your household (unless any of them have reason to self-isolate). Under no circumstance should you take part in any cycling, running or sporting activity in groups beyond your household.
Julian Bell, Leader of the council said: “I would like to thank those that have been observing the social distancing rules. Your behaviour is slowing the spread of this disease and saving lives.
“It is vitally important that everyone follows these rules and ensure they do their part to stop the spread of Covid-19.
“It may seem tempting to head to your local park in the coming days, but I would ask you to think and not do that unless you really, really need to.
“I would ask you to use your own gardens if you have them and try to stay at home but, if you must go out, then follow the social distancing guidelines, act responsibly and don’t do anything that would cause this virus to spread.
“I know that for some the borough’s parks are the only ‘gardens’ they have and I want them to be able to use these spaces safely.
“Short-term sacrifices will result in long term gains – so please, observe social distancing, use our open spaces wisely, and let’s stay safe, stay home and save lives.”
Photo by Toby Cross
