A new system for booking barbecue stands in Beddington Park has been launched by Sutton Council this week.

They must now be booked and paid for using it after the scheme went live on May 21 as part of the Beddington Park Enforcement Trial.

It comes as the public space ‘faced a number of problems’ last summer regarding its use, forcing the council to take action.

After this was announced on social media (May 22), one person wrote: “I still don’t see why a BBQ is necessary anywhere outside of home.

“Surely a picnic is just as good – and easier to clean up after yourself?

“Perhaps I’m just old fashioned.”

Each of the six available slots – which last two hours each – cost £15 to book using the system.

Park users can also book a morning or afternoon, which becomes £20, while a full date will set you back £40.

Another person believes the reason the council launched the system was because ‘selfish people hogged all the BBQs last year so no one got to use them.

The user continued: “Well done those [others] for ruining it for everyone else.”

Some people have welcomed the move while others are less pleased, and ultimately the BBQ stands are no longer free to use.

What’s your view? Let us know in the comments