Latest news with #publicparks
CBC
23-07-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Fascist fight clubs are growing across Canada
Groups known as "active clubs" are growing across Canada. They often meet in public parks or martial arts clubs, and say they are building community and fitness while standing up for Canada's European history. But they're part of a decentralized network with deep ties to white nationalist, neo-Nazi, and other far-right groups — and they're spreading fast. An exclusive CBC investigation has uncovered exactly how and where these groups operate, who's involved, who they target, and their connections to other extremist groups in Canada and beyond. The CBC's Eric Szeto explains what his team uncovered during the months-long investigation. Then, the Institute for Strategic Dialogue's Mack Lamoureux puts the clubs into the context of growing far-right extremism worldwide, and the broader goals of the movement.
Zawya
22-07-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Oman: Municipality invites investments in logistics, recreation projects
Muscat – Muscat Municipality has announced multiple investment opportunities in the wilayats of Bausher and Seeb, covering key logistics and recreational infrastructure projects. These include a dedicated truck parking facility and a modern slaughterhouse in Bausher, and two public parks in Al Khoudh. Truck parking A tender has been floated for development of a truck parking facility on a 120,000sqm site in Al Misafa, Bausher. The facility will be located on Plot Number 1578, Block M/3, with the condition that at least 80% of the land is used for parking. The proposed project includes service facilities such as a management office, rest areas, restrooms, maintenance and washing centre, tyre and spare parts sales outlets, and a café. The contract duration is 20 years, with a 12-month grace period on rent. The second park project is being offered on Plot Number 787, Block M/4, covering 80,000sqm. Also located behind the same mosque, this site is positioned to become a recreational landmark. The planned features include a BBQ area for families, children's play area and book camp, zip-line, walking and cycling paths, designated kiosk areas, and 57 parking spaces. The contract duration is 20 years with a 24-month grace period for rent. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
BBC News
30-06-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Stroud park charges idea would 'put off' businesses
Businesses which use a park for professional activities, such as dog walking and personal training, say they would be put off from using the space if they were is one of the proposals included in Stroud District Council's (SDC) Stratford Park Vision and Ambition Development Plan, which sets out how to protect the space for future generations while encouraging more people to use it.A council spokesperson said blanket business charges were "at an early stage and required further development", and any revenue generated would be "reinvested in the park".But yoga teacher Oli Raeburn said "the whole beauty of having an outdoor space like the park is that it's free". The document states the authority does not know how many businesses currently use the Gloucestershire report author said charges could help cover the cost of any damage done to the space through commercial use and ensure proper insurance practices are in local authorities in England charge companies to use parks to contribute towards maintenance costs. But Ms Raeburn, who owns Yogi Oli and has run community yoga sessions in the park for six years, said any potential charges would make her think twice about using the site."It would massively impact me, especially as my classes [in the park] are donation-based," she said."As it's a community project, it would put me off using the park as it would make it less accessible."The whole beauty of having an outdoor space like the park is that it's free."Ed Mobs uses the park for his EM Power personal training bootcamp sessions."I would have to look for a different location as my business wouldn't be able to absorb the cost."It just wouldn't be viable for me," he contrast, Stroud residents have mixed views on the proposed levy. Colin Weston, who walks his dog in the park, said: "If it was for a business then I have no problem with that. The council's got to make money too."Park user, Charles Moore, added: "I think that parks have changed over the years and many years ago they were just places for recreation, but I think it's reasonable to expect people if they're using them for their businesses to make a contribution."But Eric Wilkinson believes no one should be charged to use the space. "I think it would be a retrograde step. It is a beautiful park which is open and accessible to so many people and it needs to be kept free and open to all," he said. Cinema and festivals The Stratford Park Vision and Ambition Development Plan was endorsed by councillors at a SDC meeting on 19 June and the strategy is set to run until report states the new strategy aims to make the park a "destination location" for communities to improve "health and well-being" and provide "cultural enrichment for all".Ideas put forward include creating "green way" corridors to connect the park to other open spaces in Stroud, hosting open air cinema and music festivals, launching a forest school and expanding the skate park and sensory a statement, a SDC spokesperson said: "The Stratford Park Development Plan provides a framework for officers to explore the park's full potential, drawing on ideas through extensive stakeholder consultations."Some proposals, including the introduction of business charges for commercial use, remain at an early stage and require further development."The next step will involve benchmarking similar practices in other districts."Any revenue generated would be reinvested in the park to support its ongoing improvement and ensure it continues to benefit all users."The plan has been described as a "framework" document, and the council will bring forward set proposals in the future, which will be consulted and voted on.
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Tens of thousands across Asia stretch, breathe and balance to mark 11th International Day of Yoga
Thousands of people across Asia stretched in public parks and on sandy beaches Saturday to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga.
The Sun
21-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Full list of costly hot weather mistakes that could land you a £5,000 fine – how to avoid them
MILLIONS of Brits are set to enjoy the sunshine outdoors this weekend, with temperatures soaring as high as 34°C today. Beaches, parks, and pubs across the country will be buzzing as people soak up the warm weather and celebrate the summer solstice. 1 But before you grab your picnic basket and head outdoors, it's worth knowing that a few seemingly harmless activities could land you with a hefty fine. Katy Phillips, money-saving expert at Idealo, said: "Before you pack your basket and head out, make sure you're familiar with the rules of the park you're visiting. "Many public parks have their own restrictions, especially when it comes to music, barbecues, and alcohol. Checking ahead of time can save you the hassle and money." Idealo have revealed six common park habits that could leave your wallet significantly lighter. So, to help you enjoy the sunshine without breaking the bank, here's a rundown of potential pitfalls and how to avoid them. Playing loud music - £5,000 Think twice before blasting your favourite playlist at your local park. Playing loud music in certain parks can result in fines of up to a whopping £5,000. London's Royal Parks, for example, have a strict ban on amplified music, even at low volumes, deeming it a public nuisance. To check the rules for your local park, visit My dream pool was £40,000 so I DIYd my own 18ft version in February all for this summer heatwave - it's saved me £37,000 Littering - £400 This one should be obvious, but it's worth repeating that dropping rubbish or leaving picnic waste behind can land you with a fine of up to £400. Some councils offer a reduced rate of around £200 if you pay promptly, but failure to do so could lead to prosecution and a court fine of up to £2,500. Always take your rubbish home with you or dispose of it in designated bins. Feeding the wildlife - £150 It might seem kind, but feeding squirrels or birds is a no-no in many parks and could cost you £150. It's often considered littering, as leftover food can attract pests and create a mess. One Londoner learned this the hard way in 2021, receiving a fine for feeding squirrels. Using disposable barbecues - £100 Disposable barbecues might seem like a convenient way to cook up a feast, but using them in prohibited areas can lead to a £100 fixed penalty. Places like Brighton & Hove's seafront and parks have banned them due to the risk of fire and environmental damage. Opt for a picnic instead, or check if the park has designated barbecue areas. Five day weather forecast Today A warm, bright start but turning cloudier from the south through the morning. Scattered, showers spread across the southwest, moving northeastwards by the afternoon bringing a risk of heavy showers, thunderstorms, and hail to northern England and Wales later. Tonight Heavy showers and thunderstorms in the north gradually clear overnight. Mostly dry with clear spells elsewhere, although further heavy showers in the northwest by dawn. Feeling fresher in the west. Sunday Fresher for most with breezy westerly winds bringing sunshine and scattered showers, a few thunderstorms in the northwest. Drier and brighter in the southeast but staying warm and humid here. Outlook for Monday to Wednesday Breezy westerly winds continue to bring a mixture of sunshine and showers, these heaviest in the north and west. Near average temperatures, though feeling warm in the sunshine. Fresher nights. Drinking alcohol in restricted areas - £100 Fancy a tipple in the park? Drinking alcohol in areas covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) can result in an on-the-spot £100 fine. In Hammersmith & Fulham, for example, the PSPO applies to all public places. Check local council websites to see if a PSPO is in place before you crack open a cold one. You can find yours by visiting Dog fines - £80 Love letting your furry friend roam free? Failing to keep your dog on a lead in restricted zones, such as near children's playgrounds or wildlife areas, can result in an £80 fine. Councils like Hackney enforce these rules to protect both people and animals. Always pay attention to signage indicating where leads are required.
