The park, in Launton Road, has been closed since March after the Prime Minister announced strict measures to stop the spread of coronavirus.
New government advice has paved the way to reopen the park, but in order to keep people safe opening hours have been changed. It will open at 10.30am Monday to Thursdays, and from 7.30am Friday to Sunday, closing by 9pm each day.
Visitors will need to comply with strict two-metre social distancing rules and should bring their own hand sanitiser. There will be no handwashing or toilet facilities open.
People will be able to use the benches and picnic tables – only with members of the same household – but the café, play area and outdoor gym will remain closed.
The skate park has also opened, but advice from Skateboard England recommends a maximum of eight people using the facility at any one time.
The council’s offices, as well as The Citizens Advice Bureau and Registrar’s office, which are all based in Garth House, remain closed with staff working from home.
Bicester’s Mayor Cllr Jason Slaymaker said: “Throughout this crisis we have constantly reviewed government guidelines to ensure the safety of our staff and the wider public.
“Following careful consideration of the latest government advice, along with the implementation of new social distancing measures, we are delighted to be able to open Garth Park this week.
“Our staff have been working behind the scenes to ensure the park is as safe as possible for users. But we must all do out bit to ensure the park remains safe for all users.
“I know it will be tempting to use the play equipment and outdoor gym, but please respect the closure so we can keep people safe. Anyone found to be using the equipment will be asked to leave the park and the police may be informed.
“We would urge people to adhere to the social distancing rules so we can all help to stop transmission of covid-19 in the community, and so that we can all continue to enjoy the outdoors as the country returns to some normality.”
New measures include securing gates in an open position so there will be no need to touch them, groundsmen will only work in the park when it is closed, and there will be more frequent bin emptying – people are urged to take litter home if the bins are full.
On-site parking will remain closed and people are advised to park in nearby Claremont Carpark off Victoria Road.
In order to support measures introduced by Bicester Bowls and Tennis Clubs as they reintroduce sports, the gate between the facilities from Garth Park will remain locked.
For further details see here
Last Updated 23 July 2020
