Car parks along the North Somerset coast have been closed to prevent people venturing out into the sunshine.
North Somerset Council has taken the decision to close nine of its car parks at popular beauty spots following the UK going into lockdown on Monday (March 23).
The move comes after mounting concern in the past few days about people ignoring social distancing guidelines and flocking to the coast to soak up the spring sunshine.
Crowds of people were seen on the beaches, lining up along Weston-super-Mare and Clevedon seafronts for ice creams and chips.
The appearance of so many visitors seemingly ignoring the guidelines sparked outcry among the local community branding them ‘selfish’ and urging them to stay indoors to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
A North Somerset Council spokesman said; “Nine car parks are being closed to reduce the opportunity for people to visit areas that are not associated with the acceptable reasons for travel.
“All of these measures will remain in place until further notice to support the additional social distancing measures and protect lives.
“Residents are urged to comply with government advice.”
The nine closed car parks
Salthouse, Clevedon
Bus Terminus, Kewstoke/Sand Bay
Beach Road (opposite Commodore), Kewstoke/Sand Bay
Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare
Uphill Beach, Uphill
Knightstone Causeway, Weston-super-Mare (access will remain for residents)
Melrose, Weston-super-Mare
Worlebury Woods, Weston-super-Mare
Kilkenny Fields and cricket club car park Lake Grounds, Portishead.
