Large numbers of people visiting Seaton Carew during lockdown causing concern for Hartlepool officials

Hartlepool Borough Council says although within the rules, high numbers of people walking, running and cycling along the promenade at Seaton Carew, especially at weekends, is a worry.

It is asking residents to think how they can best avoid coming into contact with too many people whilst exercising and say the town’s parks offer a great alternative to a trip to the seafront.

Sarah Scarr, the Council’s Heritage and Countryside Manager, said: “The town’s parks are a fantastic resource and have an important role to play in helping people to stay fit and healthy during the pandemic.

“However, it is vital that wherever people exercise they follow the rules which state that you may exercise on your own, with your household or support bubble or with one person from another household (when on your own).

"You should always stay at least two metres apart from anyone not in your household or support bubble."

Related story: Calls for tougher enforcement of lockdown rules by Hartlepool councillors

Ms Scarr is also asking people to follow safety advice and guidance posted on signs at park play areas.

She said they should not enter a play area if they are unable to stay two metres (6ft) apart from others and to use all parts of a park or open space to ensure social distancing.

People out exercising are also asked to dispose of litter and bagged dog waste at home to help ease the pressure on the council’s resources during the current lockdown.

Tony Hanson, Director of Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services, said: “During previous lockdowns, there was a noticeable increase in bagged waste deposited on top of dog foul bins and on the ground around them.

"This may have been because people were reluctant to touch the metal lids for fear of infection.

"Often, when one person does this others follow suit, leaving an unsightly mess whilst the bin itself remains empty.”

Hartlepool’s Director of Public Health Craig Blundred reiterated the need to follow the Hands, Face, Space messages to protect themselves and others from Covid-19.

The Council is also inviting people to provide feedback, make suggestions and report any problems they discover when using parks by completing an online form at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/parksreport

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