Residents are being urged to take extra care when using open spaces in Swindon after prolonged hot and dry weather caused significant cracks to appear in the ground.
Stratton St Margaret Parish Council has issued the warning after large areas of cracked ground were spotted at Watermead, with similar conditions reported across many of its parks and green spaces.
The uneven ground poses a potential hazard for walkers, cyclists, children and those taking part in sports or other recreational activities.
The council is advising people to watch their footing where cracks have formed and to slow down when cycling or using scooters on affected paths and open areas.
Parents are being asked to keep children close while dog owners are also encouraged to keep their pets under control in areas where the ground has become uneven.
The parish council said it is continuing to monitor conditions across its open spaces and hopes that much-needed rainfall will help the ground recover in the coming weeks.
In the meantime, residents are being reminded to take extra care while enjoying Stratton’s parks and green spaces.
