We are dismayed that there is no date for reopening Dorney to the local community. Public access to the 400 acre parkland is a much appreciated resource, providing a safe, large recreational area.

The Covid pandemic still requires us to maintain social distance and the Prime Minister urges us to seek fresh air and wide open spaces to meet and exercise. Government and national health bodies strongly advise regular exercise to combat obesity and mental health issues. So for all these reasons it is even more distressing to lose access to such a valuable space. Dorney Lake is one of the best local amenities providing easy access for the disabled, with many kilometres of level tarmac path within a beautiful, safe, natural landscape. 

The perimeter has been completely fenced by the college to protect the site from anti-social elements and there is now only one entry point. Thus, strategies such as restricted entry numbers or reduced daily opening hours, adopted by the National Trust and other local venues, could easily be introduced.

We urge Eton College to please reopen Dorney Lake to the local community now. 

Joy Morning 

Joanne Gamble