Beach car parks in South Tyneside to remain closed while council chiefs look at 'phased return' as lockdown rules eased

From Wednesday, people in England have been told they can sunbathe in their local parks, exercise as much as they want and drive to other destinations to do so.

In his speech on Sunday night Boris Johnson said: “You can sit in the sun in your local park, you can drive to other destinations, you can even play sports but only with members of your own household.”

South Tyneside Council said it won’t re-open car parks straight away and is instead planning a “phased return” of parking near parks and the beaches.

A spokesperson said: “We are currently considering the new guidance from the Government around exercise and travelling, with a view to reopening our car parks attached to our parks and foreshore.

“A phased return of car parking services is required, focused on a risk based safe approach.

“We will provide a further update an update in due course.

“Residents are advised to keep checking the Council’s website for updates on services or follow the Council’s social media channels on Facebook STynesideCouncil and on Twitter @STyne_Council.”

It comes as several services including garden centres and golf clubs have been given the go-ahead to reopen by the Government.

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