Children have been waiting patiently to get back in the parks, but if they want to get back on the swings there are some new rules to follow.
Children and adults across Edinburgh and the Lothians were delighted by this morning’s news that playgrounds are reopening.
Edinburgh council also said skate parks, ball parks and exercise equipment are all officially open again from today.
The change comes as part of Scotland's phase two recovery plan. Play parks have remained closed due to the increased risk of transmission via surfaces such as playground equipment.
Kids who have patiently waited for three months will now be able to get back on the swings and monkey bars – but councils are asking that they wash their hands more regularly and maintain social distancing.
Sites across Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian will re-open today.
Midlothian Executive councillor for the Environment, Tom Conn said: "Our play inspectors have completed an inspection of all the non-school play areas to ensure they are safe and to remove glass etc.
"We are pleased that we're now able to reopen the parks in line with the guidance provided. However we would like to re-iterate the message that children and parents should wash their hands after using play equipment, ideally using hand sanitiser.
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“We will not be sanitising equipment as it is not practical and would require a constant presence at 225 play parks at all play areas which is impossible for us to do. We'd ask children and adults to continue to take safe and practical steps when using our parks."
Although parks are now open, social distancing guidance should be maintained at all times within park areas.
One parent expressed disappointment that council workers were ‘trying to turn away very excited young children who have patiently waited for this day for three months’ at a park in Saughton.
Staff were reportedly still cutting the grass and checking for glass, as checks continue to take place in some parks across the city.
