Update: 2000 hrs

Statement from Brian Keane, Chief Executive of Harlow Council:

“Due to the current high infection rates of coronavirus in Harlow, we have regrettably taken the decision to temporarily close all our playgrounds across the town from tonight (15 January 2021).

“This decision will be kept under review. This isn’t a decision we want to take, but it is one which aims to keep everyone safe by stopping the spread of the virus and bring rates of infection in the town down. Whilst we know that playgrounds are important for children’s play, we have to consider the wider impact on the community of keeping them open at this time. Social distancing is difficult to maintain within playgrounds especially when large numbers of families are using them. 

“These will be temporary closures and when it is safe to do so the playgrounds will reopen. We want to make it clear that we don’t want to discourage residents and families from continuing to go outside for their once a day exercise. Harlow still has plenty of open green spaces, within walking distance from people’s homes, for people to safely remain active.”

HARLOW Council are seriously considering shutting all the playgrounds in town.

The Covid-19 Resilience group met on Thursday night to discuss a number of strategies.

They have already closed the car parks in the town park but want to go a step further.

For some, the walk to the playground in the park is the only exercise they get.

However, others have witnessed very busy playgrounds with no social distancing at all.

All the tape at the basketball courts in Nicholls Field have been ripped off and people have been seen using the exercise facilities in the town park.

Film of the meeting is below.