WALTON Hall and Gardens will re-open to people taking exercise and dog walkers from next Monday (June 1).
The phased re-opening of the site gets underway on Monday with visitor access once more being provided to parts of the grounds, including the formal gardens, orchard and pond.
Those visiting the site will be expected to continue to follow social distancing guidelines at all times, maintaining a distance of at least two metres away from other people who are from a different household.
Other facilities and attractions, such as the children’s zoo, play areas and the café remain closed for the time being, to ensure public safety. This will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, as per government guidance.
Discussions are currently taking place over the re-opening of the golf course, with an update to be provided in the near future.
Warrington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for leisure and community, Cllr Tony Higgins, said: “Walton Hall and Gardens is an important green space for our borough, so I’m pleased that the first steps are being taken in the safe re-opening of the site to the public.
“While we are not yet in a position to open the facilities and attractions, it’s good news that local people will once more be able to benefit from walks and exercise in the beautiful grounds, providing a boost to their health and wellbeing.”
In line with other public car parks in Warrington, which will see the reintroduction of charges from 1 June, the standard parking charges will apply for those visiting to Walton Hall and Gardens.
For the latest information on coronavirus in Warrington, please visit warrington.gov.uk/coronavirus
A temporary mortuary is still on site and will remain in situ until September. While use of the mortuary has been minimal overall, the smaller of the structures has been used frequently to support Funeral Directors to manage capacity since it became operational on 24 April.
