Council close outdoor gyms in third lockdown due to Covid-19

On January 4, the Prime Minister announced a national lockdown for all of England, with outdoor playgrounds allowed to remain open, but outdoor gyms must close.

Preston city council were yesterday pictured closing outdoor sports facilities at Moor Park and Ashton Park to meet with new government guidelines.

Councillor Robert Boswell, Cabinet member for environment and community safety, said: “As the Government has brought in another national lockdown to help prevent the spread of Covid19, the message to stay at home is extremely important as one of the best ways we can all help.

“Exercise is also essential for our health and wellbeing and, while journeys away from home for exercising are allowed and our parks remain open for visitors, the Government guidelines included instructions to close outdoor sports courts and gym facilities.

"Our parks teams are currently visiting all relevant sites across the city with closed signs. We would ask all our visitors to respect the signs and guidelines in our common goal to curb the virus and a return to life without these restrictions as soon as possible.”

Despite being able to exercise outdoors, Government guidance states: "Outdoor sports courts, outdoor gyms, golf courses, outdoor swimming pools, archery/driving/shooting ranges and riding arenas must close."

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