Parking charges dropped and parks reopen in Hartlepool - but with a warning

Hartlepool Borough Council ditched the parking charges to help key workers and those supporting the vulnerable during the pandemic.

The town’s parks have also been reopened to allow people to get their daily dose of exercise during the lockdown, but play parks will remain closed and people are being urged to act responsibly in all open public spaces, including parks, beaches and country parks by observing the rules on public gatherings and social distancing.

Councillor Shane Moore, the leader of the council, said: “We recognise that critical workers in health and care and essential Council services are doing vital and highly-valued work to support the most vulnerable in our borough, save lives and support our communities at this unprecedented time.

“They are working long shifts, day and night, as they step up to this huge challenge. We are also aware that volunteers are stepping up as good neighbours to help with shopping and the delivery of prescriptions.

“We have therefore taken this step as part of our efforts to support everyone who is working against the clock to beat the Coronavirus.

“However, in doing this, we would reiterate the national advice for people to stay at home and only travel for essential purposes.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people that they still need to park appropriately and safely.”

Gill Alexander, the Council’s Chief Executive, said on the parks reopening: “It is important that people are given the opportunity to exercise and stay fit, but they also have a responsibility to follow the rules on public gatherings and social distancing which are designed to prevent the spread of the virus.

“We intend to monitor the situation closely and will be liaising closely with Cleveland Police to ensure that any breaches of the rules are addressed.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a nationwide lockdown on March 23, with UK citizens told to stay at home except for essential travel to work, to shop, for medical appointments, help vulnerable relatives or exercise once a day.

People must stay two metres apart from each other.