Government update advice on accessing green spaces safely (March 2021)

As we head closer to normality following the roadmap out of lockdown that the Prime Minister set out on 22nd February, the advice from Government is slowly adapting to reflect the steps and changes that will soon be in place.

As of Monday 29th March 2021, the government updated the advice on using green spaces and protecting yourself and others from coronavirus. The key changes that have been made, as of today, are as follows.

• You can meet outdoors either in a group of 6 (from any number of households), or in a group of any size from up to 2 households. Please note that 'a household' can include an existing support bubble, if eligible)
• You can take part in formally organised outdoor sports with any number of people. Outdoor sports venues and facilities will be able to reopen.
• Childcare and supervised activites are allowed outdoor for all children
• Formally organised parent and child groups can take place outdoors for up to 15 attendees.

When it comes to travelling to green spaces such as the countryside, or a country park, the advice is that all exercise in green spaces should be local wherever possible, but you can travel a short distance within your area if it is necessary. If you need to travel, you should walk or cycle where possible and if using public transport, plan ahead to avoid busy times and routes. This advice is given to allow you to practise social distancing while travelling.

It is important to note that you should not park on verges or block gates, restricting access for other vehicles.
Whilst visiting the countryside is a wonderful way to refresh the mind and body, it is also home to those trying to maintain and look after it. Remember to respect other people and protect the natural environment, making sure to leave things as you found them, by following the Countryside Code. This includes:

• Closing gates after walking through them
• Taking any and all litter home with you
• Keeping dogs on leads, especially where indicated by signs
• Follow signs that outline public footpaths and alternative routes
• Adhering to social distancing guidelines

You can read the full details of the updated guidance on the GOV.UK website, here.