Kirkintilloch grandfather’s concern over cleanliness of reopened playparks during pandemic

East Dunbartonshire Council reopened its play facilities on June 29. However, Kirkintilloch resident Thomas Cairney has been seeking an explanation as to why the play equipment has not been sterilised.

Thomas, who lives in Parkburn Avenue, has five grandchildren and often takes them to use the local park.

“The park is always busy,” said Thomas, the former chair of his local tenants and residents association. “I can see families there just now. However, I’ve also seen people walking away when they realise the equipment hasn’t been sanitized.

“I’ve tried to speak to the council but haven’t heard anything back.”

 However, the council says it is behaving in accordance with the Scottish Government’s recommendations.

Depute chief executive Thomas Glen explained: “All preparatory work for the opening of play parks in East Dunbartonshire has been carried out in accordance with Scottish Government guidance. 

“Safety and equipment maintenance checks have been carried out,

increased litter collection from bins has been arranged and signage is

being installed to reinforce the requirement for good hand hygiene and

physical distancing.  There is no requirement to provide additional

cleaning measures.

“It is understood the virus can live on certain surfaces for a relatively short period of time after which the chances of contracting the virus are significantly reduced.  As play areas have been closed for approximately 13 weeks they should be safe to use if physical distancing and hygiene advice is followed.”