James Cross, CEO of Urban Green Newcastle, said: “Newcastle’s 33 parks remain open at this time. Over the weekend we saw a steady flow of people visiting the city’s green spaces but numbers were manageable and not at the levels seen in other areas of the country.
“Specific areas of our parks are being used more than others, particularly play areas and popular attractions like Pets’ Corner in Jesmond Dene. Because of this, we’ve taken the decision to close all playgrounds and Pets’ Corner.
“Our advice to anyone planning to visit any of Newcastle’s parks or green spaces is to follow the official guidance from government about social distancing and helping to prevent the spread of infection. Avoid gathering in groups and keep at least two metres apart at all times. Use hand sanitiser after touching any surfaces in the parks but if that is not possible, please avoid touching your face and wash your hands for 20 seconds when you get home.
“If anyone shows any symptoms of COVID-19 they should absolutely stay at home and self-isolate for 14 days. Under no circumstances should you visit parks or any other public spaces.
“We all have a responsibly at this time to protect those most at risk of infection and we can do that by following the government’s advice to practice social distancing and regularly wash or sanitise our hands.
“Any decision to close Newcastle’s parks in full would come from central government. Urban Green Newcastle is continually monitoring the use of our parks to ensure they remain safe places for people to visit.”