Published on Tuesday 12 May 2020
Car parks in leisure locations across the BCP Council area will reopen from 8am this Wednesday (13 May), so that local people can once again enjoy the beaches, parks, and open spaces in their area.
Across our seafront, there will be limited facilities. Whilst many catering outlets will reopen offering a takeaway service, deckchair hire, land trains, cliff lifts, pier tolls, visitor centres and amusement arcades will not be operating.
However our golf courses, mini-golf, tennis courts, athletic tracks, skate parks. outdoor bowls facilities and ball courts will reopen, providing members of the public continue to maintain social distancing.
Many of BCP Council’s seafront toilets will be open with public conveniences at some local open spaces and parks available too. There will be enhanced cleaning and staff will be wearing PPE. Members of the public are asked to self-enforce social distancing whilst queuing for and using facilities. There will be no lifeguards on any of the beaches for the time being and people are advised it is at their own risk if they choose to enter the sea during this time. Both Piers will reopen.
Cllr Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council, said, "Those of us who don’t live close to the beach or a local park are by now getting a bit fed up of repeatedly walking round the block! We are pleased to open up local facilities so our residents can now enjoy our beautiful natural environment and return to the open spaces they love.
"The message to those outside of Dorset though is that we would like people to not come. We need our open spaces for local people to get out and exercise. Other than operating takeaway services, our hotels, pubs and restaurants are closed, and visits to second homes or self-catering accommodation are not permitted under the latest government guidance."
She continued, "Please remember that social distancing and limiting contact with those outside of your household remains essential in controlling covid19."
In line with government guidance, playgrounds and outdoor gyms across the area will remain closed.
Those visiting parks, beaches and coastal facilities are asked to park considerately and respect all restrictions. Parking enforcement for contraventions will be taking place and PCNs issued for any vehicle flouting regulations.
BCP Council is optimistic that residents will observe social distancing and avoid gatherings. However, should this not be the case, temporary access restrictions will be considered for everyone’s safety.