As the country goes into a third lockdown to help stop the spread of Coronavirus, Hampshire County Council is working to the national guidance for its most popular ‘choose to use’ services, including country parks, Hillier Gardens and libraries.
Councillor Edward Heron, Executive Member for Recreation, Heritage, Countryside and Rural Affairs, said: “We know how important it is for people to be able to access local outdoor spaces for both their physical and mental wellbeing, particularly at these times of national restrictions.
“I’m pleased to say our country parks and Hilliers Gardens are remaining open, including outdoor play areas. Normal opening hours and parking charges will apply. Please stay local and continue to be sensible when using countryside spaces and local rights of way. Plan ahead, limit social contact and don’t become a crowd. The countryside is there for all of us so please follow the Countryside code by leaving no trace of your visit, and taking all your litter home.”
Park cafes will be open for takeaway services and toilet facilities at all country parks will remain open. Indoor areas including visitor centres and shops will close, as well as the Chapel at Royal Victoria Country Park. The County Council’s Manor Farm animal attraction, which is located inside River Hamble Country Park, and Staunton Farm, located next to Staunton Country Park, and Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve will also be closed while the national restrictions are in place.
Library customers can continue to borrow and reserve physical items at public libraries by using the Ready Reads service or reserving online. All Hampshire Libraries are closed for browsing, and fines are frozen. Access to Go Online public computers is temporarily suspended.
For a full list of changes to County Council services during national restrictions, go to:https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/coronavirus#impacted-services
The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline can be contacted on 0333 370 4000. (Calls charged at local rate.) More information at: