Ipswich park laws set to be changed for first time in 40 years
Ipswich’s park laws are set to be changed for the first time in more than 40 years.
The changes will be considered during the borough’s full council meeting on Wednesday and, if approved, it would be the first time the byelaws changed since 1983.
Byelaws are effectively local laws meant to deal with local issues using powers granted by Acts of Parliament — these changes would relate only to pleasure grounds, public walks and open spaces in Ipswich.
The officer’s report states the changes will allow the council to deal with unacceptable behaviour, which can cause injury or distress, that is not addressed through existing legislation.
The report adds: “The existing Parks Byelaws 1983 are in need of replacement to ensure that a full range of activities and locations are adequately regulated and to ensure maximum protection of Ipswich’s most cherished assets into the future.
“Taking no action would leave many areas and activities unregulated.”
The new rules include changes to previous laws such as the decrease in the age appropriate for children’s areas, including using its equipment, from 15 to 14-years-old.
Some new rules would also include:
- No person would be able to displace or tamper with any life-saving appliance provided by the council except in the case of an emergency.
- People would not be allowed to engage in sports such as archery, javelin, or discus, unless part of a council event, or written council consent was provided.
- No person would be able to provide a service for which a charge was made without the consent of the council.
- No person would be allowed to use any device designed or adapted for metal or mineral detecting in the ground.
No comments were made by the public during the consultation period.
If approved, the new laws would come into effect on August 17, 30 days from the date the decision is made.