AN UPDATE has been issued about the controversial introduction of entry passes at Cirencester Park. 

Electric pedestrian gates on four main routes into the Grade I listed parkland were due be activated on Friday, March 15, meaning families, dog walkers and joggers wishing to visit the park would need a pass to walk around it.

Residents living in the Cirencester area are eligible for a £10 deposit community pass, whereas those living further afield will have to pay £30 for an annual pass.

However, due to delivery delays with the passes these plans were postponed which has allowed residents to wonder around the park freely without a pass for the past few weeks. 

But the Bathurst Estate team - who own and manage the park - has announced this week that delivery issues will be resolved promptly.

A newsletter sent out by the estate yesterday, Tuesday, March 26 says: "We are sorry for the continued delay in receiving Cirencester Park community and annual passes. 

"Please be assured we are resolving the issue and passes will be sent shortly.

"In light of this delay, the automated pedestrian gates will not be activated until Monday, April 15.

"In the meantime, please continue to visit and enjoy the park this Easter.

"Please note that annual passes will be valid a year from when they are sent, not from your application date.

"Passes are not required to visit The Old Kennels or the Jubilee Arboretum."

The beloved park has been free to walk around for more than 300 years so the decision to paywall it has fuelled some discontent in the community, which led to a protest organised by campaign group Right to Roam on Sunday, March 17.

The estate has previously said that the passes will support the restoration of the park's Broad Avenue and help fund general maintenance of pathways, woodlands, grasslands and monuments.

In addition, the estate has also recently announced that walkers and Roots + Seeds Kitchen Garden customers will be able to park at the Old Kennels Car Park for free for the first hour, starting from this Friday, March 29. 

To find out more about the passes or parking charges visit bathurstestate.co.uk