Residents are being urged to be patient as play areas and outdoor gyms gradually reopen across the borough.

From Saturday, July 4, some playgrounds and outdoor facilities will reopened, however not all will be ready to use this weekend.

The council is assessing all of the sites in accordance with government guidelines, meaning not of all them can reopen immediately.

However, during lockdown, many parents were not deterred by play area closures, with incidents being reported in Moss Bank Park and Queen's Park where parents have flouted lockdown rules.

Despite warning signs stating that parks were closed for public safety, children have been seen playing on swings and being lifted over padlocked gates by their parents.

People are advised to use the play areas responsibly to ensure they can be used safely.

Cllr Adele Warren, executive cabinet for Environmental Services, said: “Our teams are working as hard as they can to reopen play areas and outdoor gyms, we know how important it is to the public to go outside, and enjoy our parks and play area.

“But there is a lot of work that still needs to be done before we reopen these facilities, to make sure equipment is safe and sites meet all the government requirements.

“We are hoping to have a few of the outdoor gyms and most well used play areas back open on Saturday. There will then be a phased reopening of other play areas to ensure it is safe for everyone.”

Once play areas and outdoor gyms reopen, the council will continue to carry out regular safety inspections.

Residents using the play areas are advised to take safety measures such as using hand sanitiser and social distancing.

Cllr Warren said: “We would advise people to use their common sense. Take precautions when you’re using these areas, bring hand sanitisers with you, and try and keep at a safe distance from others.

“For your own safety, we would urge people to not use play areas and outdoor gym equipment unless we have reopened them. As and when we reopen facilities, we will be putting signage in place so take note of this.”

In some play areas, equipment may need to be removed to enable social distancing.The public are also advised toilets in parks will remain closed.