Everything you need to know as children's play parks reopen in South Tyneside

South Tyneside Council is starting to reopen children’s play areas in the borough from Wednesday, July 22.

The council operates 41 outdoor play areas, which have been closed since the country went into lockdown in March.

In line with the easing of Government restrictions, sites are being reopened on a rolling programme, with all play parks expected to be open by the weekend.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “Since the Government announced that parks could reopen from July 4, our teams have been working extremely hard reviewing the new guidance, updating risk assessments and arranging new signage for every site across the Borough. This work has been essential in order to help keep our play areas as safe as possible.”

Signs are being replaced to remind parents and carers about the risks of Covid-19 and how they can help to keep their youngsters safe, highlighting social distancing rules and guidance around regular hand washing.

All children must also be accompanied by an adult and if play areas look busy, parents are advised to consider waiting or returning another time.

Anyone showing symptoms of Covid-19, or with anyone in their family showing symptoms should not visit.

Cllr Dixon added: “Although we have put some measures in place, it is simply not possible to ensure all areas will be Covid-free, given the number and size of each site and the complexity of the equipment that would need to be regularly sanitised. We also cannot supervise every site.

“If families choose to visit our play areas then it is vital that they use them responsibly, with parents and carers urged to respect the rules and to take extra care to help protect their children, themselves and others.

“We stress the importance of regular hand washing and would encourage them to carry cleansing wipes, or sanitising gels, and use them with their children before, during and after visiting our play parks as well as washing hands thoroughly when they get home. We all need to work together to keep our communities safe.”

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