Maldon District Council has decided not to close the car park at the Prom this February half-term as the measures already put in place have been working to improve social distancing.

In a statement released this morning (Wednesday, 10 February) it was clear that the move to shut the car park at Maldon's popular Promenade Park during the week of the school holiday had been on the tables if issues with social distancing had not improved.

However, with additional signage reminding people about social distancing and police and council officer patrols, as well as the closure of play areas, the council has now decided the car park measure won't be needed.

In the statement, a spokesperson for Maldon District Council says: "It is clear that the 'Stay at Home' message and the recently installed additional signage in Promenade Park is having the desired effect. Social distancing has greatly improved, and we would like to thank everyone for playing their part in this.

"However, we would remind anyone who is thinking of visiting our district this half term holiday not to do so, and to stay local and take their exercise in line with the current rules.

"This February half term, Promenade Park, including the main car park (with limited winter parking), will remain open to enable local residents to take their (socially distanced) exercise, whilst adhering to the rules."

The main play sites in Promenade Park will remain closed, while the BMX track, skate park and model boating lake will remain open.

Councillor Wendy Stamp, Leader of Maldon District Council, said; "I believe we have taken some sensible measures to try and reduce the numbers visiting the Promenade Park and these do appear to be working.

"The decision not to close the main car park will ensure that the surrounding roads do not suffer the inconvenience this would inevitably cause.

"I would urge any visitors thinking of traveling into our district this half term holiday not to do so, as they are putting the lives of our community at risk and we make no apology for protecting the health of our residents and helping the NHS to save lives.

"I would urge anyone who thinks that it acceptable to drive out of their local area for their exercise, to think again - Stay at Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives".