Council play parks finally re-open

Under strict guidance, the areas were allowed to re-open near the end of July after a three-month lockdown.

All of the parks under Wakefield Council’s remit were open from July 4, but many falling into Leeds jurisdiction have remained padlocked, much to parents’ frustrations.

That included parks in Allerton Bywater, Methley and Kippax.

A spokesman for Leeds City Council said: “The reopening programme is being done gradually to ensure playgrounds meet the requirements set out in the government guidelines around cleaning and social distancing to allow them to reopen safely.

“There are more than 200 play areas and outdoor gyms across Leeds with over 2,000 pieces of equipment.

“It will therefore take time to re-open all of the play areas and playgrounds, and Leeds City Council would like to thank the public for their patience during this time.”

Those to have re-opened recently includes Blands Playground on Leeds Road in Allerton Bywater, Kippax Miners Welfare and Savile Park in Methley.

Kippax and Methley ward councillor, James Lewis, said: “People will appreciate the need to be cautious when it comes to managing the risks of Covid-19.

For playgrounds our primary focus has to be on the safety of children and families using them and making sure that social distancing measures and a robust cleaning regime are in place.

“However we understand that many families want to see playgrounds reopen safely which is why we have reopened some already and hope to open more in the future.”

Signage has been installed on the sites to remind users regarding social distancing and also to limit numbers including on relevant pieces of equipment. If a playground or equipment is busy then people are being asked to be patient