Insurers' refusal of cover could mean parks shut

PROBLEMS OVER FOUR YEARS SEE COUNCIL CALLED 'MORAL HAZARD'

- By DYLAN HAYWARD

PARKS in a parish could be closed after insurers declined to provide cover.

Zurich refused to renew Witherley Parish Council's policy for parks in Fenny Drayton and Ratcliffe Culey. Every other insurer approached has also said no.

The crisis began in 2021 when two residents asked for documents about the council's Neighbourhood Development Plan under the Freedom of Information Act.

Although the council's refusal to provide information was initially supported by the Information Commissioner, a tribunal later found against the council.

It said handling of those requests showed "casual disregard for the duties of a public authority" and that the council had committed contempt of court.

Zurich refused to renew the policy, in part citing that judgement.

The tribunal had ordered the council in February 2023 to respond properly to the information requests within 20 working days.

The residents had asked for meeting notes, documents and emails about the neighbourhood plan.