Welcome the warmer weather with open arms and get ready to enjoy your shared outdoor spaces. We want you to have a great time while also being mindful of your neighbours and prioritising safety. To ensure that everyone has a great experience, we have some friendly reminders about what you can and cannot use in the communal areas.
Swimming and paddling pools, including hot tubs, are not allowed in communal areas due to the risk of accidental drowning and water borne viruses.
When using barbecues, please ensure that they are never left unattended while lit, cooking, or cooling. Additionally, barbecues should not be used on balconies, and they should be kept away from sides of buildings, sheds, fences, trees, shrubs, garden waste, or any other combustible items. Gas cylinders should be stored away from direct sunlight, and after use, both the barbecues and cylinders should be put away in a store/shed and not left in communal areas. Make sure to allow barbecue coals or charcoal to cool down before disposing of them, and always dispose of all rubbish and packaging responsibly. Please see Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue’s website for more information on safe barbecuing. https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/safety/outdoors/barbecues
Trampolines and any other fixed or temporary play equipment, including slides and swings, are not permitted in communal gardens or courtyards. This rule is in place to guarantee a safe environment for everyone.
Please remember to store any garden furniture after each use and refrain from leaving it in the communal area/garden to ensure the safety of all residents.
Our Tenancy Management team will be actively monitoring the communal areas and removing any equipment that is not permitted. If you have any doubts about what you can and cannot use, please don't hesitate to contact your Housing Officer, who will be more than happy to assist you.
With warm weather comes more social gatherings in gardens, communal places and the outdoors. Unfortunately, this can increase littering and fly-tipping in certain areas. We ask you to be considerate and ensure all rubbish and items are picked up and disposed of correctly, keeping our community clean and safe this summer for everyone to enjoy.
Fly-tipping is a criminal offence. Those caught fly-tipping can be prosecuted and could face a fixed penalty notice of £150 to £400 for small-scale offences or up to £500 for larger incidents.
You can report fly-tipping here
Alongside littering and fly-tipping, Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) can also increase. We want you to have fun and enjoy the glorious weather, but please be mindful of loud music and noise outside of social hours. If you are experiencing ASB in your area, then please click here for more information and a guide on how to report it.
