When should the council reopen its playgrounds across the Harborough district?

With playgrounds are reopening across the country, questions are being asked to the council about when children can return to the playgrounds in the Harborough district.

The Government said play areas closed during the coronavirus lockdown could be re-opened earlier this month.

And some parents are annoyed that they are still closed in Harborough, as thousands of schoolchildren across the district start their summer holidays.

Harborough District Council insists they have to ensure their playgrounds are totally safe before they will re-open them.

“We are keen to reopen our play areas as soon as we are satisfied it is safe to do so.

“It is worth noting that play areas in the district are operated either by the district council, parish councils, or by developers, and different policies will apply to each accordingly,” said the council.

“Harborough District Council runs 28 play areas across the Harborough district and each would require an individual risk assessment before they can reopen.

“We are currently mindful of the Leicester lockdown, as well as issues with large gatherings of people in parks, and some anti-social behaviour in recent weeks and this is being taken into account.

“We are continuing to review our position, on a weekly basis, in light of wider issues and national guidance, and will announce any decision to re-open play areas once it is made.

"Parks and open spaces are now open along with tennis courts and bowls - but site rules on council-owned sites must be observed."

One young mum, who lives near Market Harborough’s Welland Park, said: “It’s high time the council got a move on.

“I’ve got a lively little boy who would love to play with his friends in the fantastic playground at Welland Park.

“But he can’t because it’s still closed.”

The mum-of-one added: “We can’t understand it because the kids would be playing out in the fresh air.

“As long as the equipment and gates are regularly cleaned there shouldn’t be a problem.

“We see play areas being re-opened in other parts of Leicestershire but not here in Market Harborough.

“It’s very frustrating.”