Enjoying the warm weather safely in our communal spaces

Having had a taste of summer in recent days, we’re reminding you about how communal outdoor spaces can be enjoyed safely and considerately during the warmer months.

We’ve received a few enquiries about what can be used in communal gardens and shared areas, so we’ve put together a guide to help everyone make the most of the sunshine while keeping our neighbourhoods safe and enjoyable for all.

Paddling pools

Small paddling pools designed for toddlers (approximately 4–5ft in diameter) can be used in communal areas, provided they are:

• Supervised by a responsible adult at all times
• Never left full of water without supervision
• Emptied, cleaned and stored away overnight

Barbecues

Residents are welcome to use barbecues in communal gardens as long as they are used responsibly and with consideration for neighbours.

Please ensure that barbecues are:

• Supervised by a responsible adult at all times
• Positioned away from windows, doors and balconies
• Used in a way that does not cause nuisance from smoke or noise

For safety reasons:

• Gas and disposable barbecues are not permitted
• Barbecues must never be used inside homes, gazebos or on balconies
• A bucket of water or sand should be kept nearby in case of emergencies

Children’s play equipment

To help keep communal areas accessible and safe for everyone:

• Trampolines and large fixed play equipment are not permitted in communal gardens
• Smaller play items can be used during the day but should be packed away overnight

Fans and portable air conditioning units

If you’re using fans or portable air conditioning units during warmer weather, please remember to:

• Avoid running them continuously for long periods
• Take care not to overload plug sockets or extension leads

Thank you for helping us keep our communal spaces safe, tidy and welcoming for everyone. By following these simple guidelines, we can all enjoy the warmer weather together.