Walsall Arboretum fully closed after social distancing 'ignored by some visitors'
Walsall Arboretum has been closed to the public at the request of police after reports of visitors failing to stick to social distancing rules.
Staff from Walsall's main park announced the move early on Easter Monday morning, saying that officers had requested the entire area be closed.
The play areas had been locked up since the beginning of the coronavirus lockdown but until today the general park area had remained open for locals doing their daily exercise.
Walsall Police Commander, Chief Supt Andy Parsons, said: “We requested the local authority consider closing Walsall Arboretum due to concerns over the number of visitors during the Bank Holiday weekend, including many who were not adhering to the Government’s instruction over social distancing.
“This wasn’t a request that was made lightly as we understand the importance of local parks during these times for exercise and people’s mental wellbeing.
“We will be reviewing the decision with the council tomorrow and hope to reopen the park soon. However, people need to understand the Arboretum and other parks in the borough should be used for exercise only in line with the Government’s order and not to congregate or hang out.”
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Councillor Mike Bird, leader of Walsall Council, said the decision may be reviewed "if people start to be sensible".
"We have spoken to the police and closed the Arboretum because people are just not taking this seriously," Councillor Bird said.
"People are being so stupid, we even saw some people sunbathing in Willenhall Cemetery this weekend.
"I hope the groups who have been going to the Arboretum and playing football and other games will think of the people who have passed away.
"They have no concept whatsoever of the consequences of their actions or who they could go on to infect.
"We know this will inconvenience the majority but we will protect the majority.
"However, we may review this decision if people start to be sensible."
Cemeteries across Walsall were also fully closed by council chiefs over the weekend after some groups failed to follow the Government guidelines.
Bosses at Walsall Council said it had been a regrettable decision but was necessary due to people flouting social distancing measures.
Access to cemeteries, or crematoriums, is now strictly limited to funerals and cremations – with a maximum of 10 people permitted.
An announcement on the Arboretum's Facebook page said on Monday: "At the request of West Midlands Police, Walsall Arboretum is closed with immediate effect and will remain so for the foreseeable future.
"This closure has been necessary due to park visitors not abiding by national guidance regarding social distancing."
