Park car parks temporarily closed

Reports of people congregating in parks have forced the temporary closures

Oldham Council have temporarily closed district park car parks in the area.

It comes after reports of people congregating in them which goes against the social distancing guidelines from the Government. 

A spokesperson for the council said: "We are closing our park car parks as we've had reports that people have been congregating in them.

"Stay at home, protect the NHS and if you are going anywhere else practise social distancing and help stop the spread of coronavirus."

A sign on the gates of one of the car parks now shut says: "In accordance with Government instructions you are advised to return home unless you are taking your once a day exercise (walk, run, cycle).

"If you choose to use this park to exercise, you must maintain social distancing (at least 2m), keep to the paths, keep moving and do not loiter.

"The car park is now locked, and no facilities are available."

In the town centre, car parks remain open and are currently free for NHS staff and key workers. 

Councillor Sean Fielding, Leader of Oldham Council, said: “To show our support we have introduced free parking in our town centre car parks and on-street bays.

“This will allow essential workers and volunteers to go about their vital duties without having to worry about paying to park.

“The decision also follows the government’s guidelines around social distancing and discouraging key workers from using public transport.”

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