DORCHESTER’S skate park in Weymouth Avenue is to be closed from today (Tuesday) because of Government lockdown restrictions.

The popular free skate area, which is run by Dorchester Town Council, had remained open since the start of the latest lockdown while Government advice was clarified.

Also closing will be multi use games areas run by the council in parks across the town because they feature basketball facilities.

Deputy town clerk Steve Newman said the closures would come into immediate effect after receiving guidance from the national Skate England governing body which has been in consultation with Government officials to clarify the rules.

Other skateparks, whether indoor, or outdoor, will also be expected to close.

Mr Newman told a town council meeting on Monday evening that all other play areas operated by the council could remain open, along with parks, other open spaces and public toilets. The refreshment kiosk in the Borough Gardens is also allowed to remain in operation.