TEMPORARY parking restrictions and a booking system will be introduced for people wanting to use Dinton Pastures as of tomorrow (January 30).
To reduce visitor numbers amid the pandemic and ensure that social distancing rules can be followed, Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) will be limiting the number of people entering the park - and making sure people aren't parking in surrounding areas.
The booking system will be in place for the play area between 10am and 4pm on weekends and during school holidays.
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Visitors will need to book a one-hour time slot online, prior to their visit.
Staff members will be onsite to monitor usage and clear the play area once the hour is up.
The play area will have capacity for 150 people in each one-hour time slot, which is less than 50% of its usual capacity. Double bookings will not be permitted, and it is asked that people only book if they know they will show up, to save disappointing other families.
The overflow carpark has been closed since last weekend, and WBC have confirmed it will remain closed until lockdown ends, at the earliest.
PICTURED: Social distancing at Dinton Pastures
A formal Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) is being put in place and will be enforceable from this week to prevent visitors from parking in the areas nearby.
Traffic cones have been put in place in the meantime.
Other measures include increased and more prominent signage, as well as additional presence from the council’s Covid Support Officers to observe visitor behaviour and help promote best practice.
The following roads fall under the TTRO:
- Davis Street
- Lea Heath Way
- Davis Way (leading to Douglas Grange and Little Hill Road)
- Sanford Lane
- Mohawk Way
- Colemansmoor Road
PICTURED: Dinton Pastures. Pic: Wikimedia
Any residents living on these roads should park on their driveway.
Anyone unable to do so, or anyone with no off-street parking, is asked to email parking.services@wokingham.gov.uk with vehicle details and proof of residency (such as a council tax letter, V5C vehicle logbook or utility bill).
Their details will be added to the system and they will be given a dispensation to park whilst these temporary restrictions are in place.
"Only visit if you live nearby"
Cllr Parry Batth, executive member for environment and leisure says: “We are aware that local parks and play areas have been extremely busy in recent weeks, especially Dinton Pastures.
"This is of course a testament to how wonderful these outdoor spaces are; however, we do need to ensure that they remain safe places to visit.
As such, we are investing in the necessary actions to help reduce visitor numbers and stop the spread of Covid-19 in our communities.
“Regular exercise is integral to our physical and mental health and we do not want to stop people from being able to access these outdoor spaces.
"However, it is imperative that we listen to feedback and act accordingly. We also need our residents to play their part.
"Outdoor exercise should be done locally wherever possible, but you can travel a short distance within your area to do so if necessary. "Please only visit Dinton if you are a Wokingham Borough resident who lives nearby.”
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