B.C.'s Playland delays opening amid travel worries

A Vancouver amusement park has delayed its opening until after the May long weekend amid concerns it will attract COVID-19 rule breakers.

Playland says in a statement that it was set to open at the Pacific National Exhibition May 1 after developing a safety plan supported by Vancouver Coastal Health.

2/2 During discussions today with the PHO, concerns were raised related to Playland drawing travel outside of regional health authorities. Due to this, we were asked to remain closed until after the circuit breaker. We look forward to welcoming guests after May long weekend.

— PNE / Playland & Events (@PNE_Playland) April 27, 2021

However, it says concerns were raised that the opening could draw travel from outside the regional health authority during a discussion with the Provincial Health Office.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said Monday that officials were working with Playland to consider the risks and benefits of opening the amusement park.

She said that while outside is safer than inside, "this is not the time that we want people coming together for recreational reasons."

Non-essential travel is prohibited between three different regions of the province until May 25.