Coventry council to shut Coombe Abbey Park's car park tomorrow following anger from residents

Coombe Abbey Park's car park will be shut tomorrow, April 7, following anger from residents as people continued to drive to the park.

Among the concerns of residents were that people are driving to the park and they may not be obeying social distancing measures when they visit.

The closure applies to all parks run by Coventry City Council, and it comes in effect at 12 noon tomorrow.

All parks will remain open to people visiting on foot.

Andrew Walster director with responsibility for parks at the city council, said: “We’ve wrestled with this decision over the last few days as the vast majority of people have observed social distancing when visiting our parks.

"However, we are really lucky that in Coventry most people live relatively close to a park, woodland or fields.

"This means most people can enjoy a walk in their local area without the need to get in a car and travel.

“We have always said we would constantly review the situation, make changes if needed and continue to respond to national guidance alongside local knowledge.

"To stress, all of our parks remain open to people visiting on foot.

"I’d also like to thank people for their continued support and sensible approach when enjoying our parks and open spaces.”