One way system for walkers at Doncaster's Lakeside blasted as 'stupid' and 'ridiculous'

Signs have been installed on the path around the lake urging walkers to follow a one way route – understood to be aimed at preventing the spread of coronavirus.

The blue direction signs, installed last week, have arrows indicating the way walkers should walk around the popular Doncaster beauty spot when they visit.

But the move has been criticised by walkers who have been left baffled by the signs.

Vivienne Bell wrote on Facebook: “I will be going the way I've always gone, what a ridiculous idea.”

Tom Chambers posted: “Complete waste of money and stupid idea. I’m on there daily with my dog and daughter and there many elderly people who use small sections of the lake to walk a little then turn back because they are unable to walk all way round.”

Mark Collins added: “Absolutely agree - waste of time, resources and money! What if you’re not completing a full lap?”

Steve Wake posted: “Yup world gone mad - start and finish line next” while Louise Wollerton wrote: “We needed this last summer when the area was packed. Seems a bit late now.”

Rachael Elizabeth Illingworth added: “People haven’t been able to follow government guidelines for the past year during the pandemic they’re not going to take any notice of those.”

Debbie Froggatt wrote: “Good luck. I go every day and people will continue to walk the way they want.”

The lake has become a popular spot for walkers during lockdown, but there have been a number of criticisms of measures introduced in the area over the last 12 months.

In June last year, parts of the path were sealed off over fears of people being able to maintain social distancing on narrow sections of the path – but the fences installed around the area were repeatedly smashed down.

Then in November, non-waterproof signs urging walkers to follow social distancing were washed away hours after being painted.

We have contacted Doncaster Council for further details.