With fine weather forecast for the bank holiday weekend, the team at Derby Parks are urging people to plan ahead if they’re planning to visit the city’s parks or open spaces this weekend.

While Government guidelines have been relaxed to allow park users to spend more time outdoors, including enjoying a picnic or sunbathing, some park facilities remain closed to keep visitors and staff safe.

This includes outdoor gyms and children’s play areas, Markeaton Park Paddling Pool and Chaddesden Park Water Play. These will stay closed until Government guidance changes, and we can ensure that children can use them safely. Before it can re-open, the paddling pool will have to undergo the usual cleaning, maintenance and water quality testing which happens every year.

Visitors are asked to use the car parks, which are open. Park toilets remain closed.

Councillor Robin Wood, Derby City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said:

Our parks and open spaces are wonderful and relaxing places to visit, but I would urge visitors to bear in mind that not all of our park facilities are able to re-open and to plan for this. Please remember to practise social distancing at all times.

Visitors are also able to meet up with one person from outside their home, as long as they stay at least two metres away from them. For more information about the latest guidance go to inderby.org.uk/parks.

Please help us keep our parks tidy by taking all your litter home with you. Thank you for your understanding and co-operation. By using our parks and open spaces with consideration we can enjoy the full benefits of being outdoors.