Council urges fresh stay away warning for key locations

The warning was issued weeks after the authority told our readers that they must only make their way to beauty spots like Palacerigg and Auchinstarry by foot or cycling.

Now sporting facilities have been added to that list amidst claims that too many people are gathering in locations like the footballing complex in Abronhill’s Oak Road.

The area has reportedly seen a steady stream of visitors since lockdown began - and police have confirmed that some damage was done to one of the pitches earlier in the month.

And this was after entry was forced to the premises.

However, it is thought that the flouting of lockdown at pitches is an issue across the authority amd not simply in this area.

A spokesperson for North Lanarkshire Council said: “The vast majority of people are behaving appropriately and acting in accordance with the government guidelines.

“However, we have had some people damaging sports pitches including damage to the surface areas, fences and gates.

“It’s too early to provide a definitive cost but it’s likely to run in to the thousands.”

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