Final decision due on Hull's East Park gates reopening

East Park gates were locked in 2020 during the Covid lockdown

A decision on whether to reopen the gates of East Park in Hull to traffic will be made next week.

They were shut in 2020 in response to the Covid outbreak.

More than 1,500 people have signed a petition opposing the move, claiming it would make the park less safe and increase pollution.

The city council said opening the gates would "ensure compliance with the Equality Act in regard to accessibility".

The plans would allow 70 cars to park along a roadway and allow access to the car park.

Tony Crosby, who regularly runs in the park, said having the gates closed reduced the danger.

"Children can ride up and down the roads on the bicycles quite freely," he said. "People using the park should be able to feel safe in such a green space."

Dog walker Phil Kirkham said: "You can let your dog off the lead here.

"All this great open space for the dog to run around and you're not forever looking over your back to see."

Phil Kirkham said the park was a "great open space for the dog to run around"

However, one woman said she supported the reopening.

"Elderly people and the disabled can't walk all the way from the swimming baths area to this side of the park," she added.

Hull City Council said: "Reopening of the main East Park gates would come with a controlled 350m access providing a more inclusive experience for all park users.

"Measures such as additional disabled bay parking near the café and footways providing a smooth walkway for all users are also proposed.

"All designs would see a Road Safety Audit and Equality Impact Assessment to ensure the park is inclusive for all users."

A final decision will be made at a council meeting on Monday, April 15, 2024.