Bank Holiday weekend: Peterborough residents urged to check which attractions are open

Even though lockdown restrictions are starting to ease, the Government guidelines are still to stay alert and keep safe.

At present, local authority owned open spaces generally remain open, but play areas, car parks and toilets are closed. National Trust sites remain closed, while Nene Park in Peterborough is having a phased re-opening of its car parks.

Cemeteries in Peterborough will be open during Eid-Ul-Fitr, with visitors who wish to visit the graves of loved ones to pay their respects urged to follow national safety measures.

Cllr John Holdich, leader of Peterborough City Council, said: “Social distancing should still be observed at all times when visiting a cemetery and no more than two people from different households should meet together. We would further stress that if anyone is showing coronavirus symptoms or if they or any member of their household are self-isolating they should stay at home.”

There are a number of open spaces which remain closed to the public, such as Grafham Water near Huntingdon, which has reported an increase in visitors since the lockdown restrictions were eased.

Cllr Steve Count, leader of Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “Of course I recognise that after a number of weeks at home people are keen to exercise in different surroundings - particularly with the forthcoming holiday.

“But in common with a number of other popular attractions, Anglian Water has closed Grafham Water to protect its staff, volunteers and the public and we have been advised that it will remain that way for the foreseeable future.

“The best thing to do is check before you visit and observe social distancing measures when out and about.”

Jake Williams, head of parks and conservation for Anglian Water, said: “We know our leisure attractions are loved by many and protecting the health and safety of our colleagues and visitors is our top priority.

“Balancing the needs and wishes of all our active communities is always a challenge and all are keen as each other to get back to some sense of normality. We must be certain that when we re-open, we can do so safely, meeting all the guidance on social distancing.

“We don’t want our colleagues to face abuse as has sadly been the case recently. If you were hoping to visit soon, please postpone as we will not be open and all tracks and car parks are closed. For those of you who have been supportive throughout, thank you so much. It means everything to our teams.”