Runnymede parks to stay open overnight in summer trial to save costs
Some neighbours are "quite nervous” over potential crime spikes
Parks in Runnymede will be left open and unlocked overnight in a summer trial aimed at cutting costs, despite neighbours “being quite nervous” over potential crime spikes.
Park security drained £68,823 from Runnymede Borough Council’s purse in 2023/2024 and £65,166 the following year.
Since November 2025, Heathervale Recreation Ground, The Orchard and Abbeyfields, Truss’s Island and Ottershaw Memorial, have been kept unlocked.
Now the council is seeking to extend the trial over the summer months, and widen it to include Victory Park in Addlestone, as well as Chertsey Recreation Ground.
The council is keen to see if the low levels of reported issues over the quieter months repeats during summer when it is acknowledged parks are more popular…and consequently there is more likelihood of antisocial behaviour.
Part of the savings will be put towards installing CCTV at Chertsey Recreation Ground and Abbeyfields.
The review arose from the council’s savings and efficiencies program that identified park security could be reduced while balancing public safety and value for money, the June community services meeting was told.
Officers said: “Since November 25, four locations previously subject to high levels of security, have had more open arrangements, and the evidence gathered during that period has indicated the changes have widened access for residents, particularly for those unable to access a park during daylight hours.
“But it hasn’t led to any measurable increase in antisocial behaviour or any other serious operational issues.fi
“Winter changes have been broadly successful and provide a sound basis for a more flexible and evidence led approach going forward.”
The review would be carried out in November.
Councillor Pippa Tucker-Brown (Conservative: Woodham and Rowtown) said: “I know there are neighbours around Victory Park that are quite nervous about the change.
“We are obviously encouraged by the details of the report but I just wanted to flag that up here tonight.
“We will keep a close eye and they’re good at reporting to councillors who cover the area – and in November we’ll get a better view.”
Cllr Carl Mann (Reform: Ottershaw) said: “I feel a lot better that it will be reviewed because i do think that we are going along on evidence based on a winter season and not on a summer season – when you know summer brings a lot issues with regards with antisocial behaviour, vandalism and gatherings.”