London's Hammersmith and Fulham Council (HFC) has introduced new fees for personal trainers who use the borough's parks and open spaces to provide paid-for sessions.

The council introduced annual charges for commercial sports and fitness groups on 1 April, with personal trainers now having to pay £350 a year to use HFC's 48 parks/open spaces. A large commercial sports organisation will face an annual cost of £1,200 as part of HFC's new policy, which is designed to ensure the safety of residents using the facilities.

According to a council spokesperson, the charges means that the relevant insurance, liability and qualifications are in place for personal trainers looking to use parks and open spaces. The spokesperson added that organisations such as British Military Fitness already pay for use of the parks and open spaces.

HFC cabinet member for residents' services Greg Smith said: "Of course anyone can use our parks for free, including personal trainers, and we encourage people to enjoy our many open spaces. "However, as soon as personal trainers start charging for their services and making money out of the park, they are running a business and would need a licence. Taxpayers don't expect them to get a free ride on the back of their council tax."

Dave Stalker, chief executive officer of the Fitness Industry Association, said: "The industry recognises the need to contribute to the upkeep of parks and promotes this, while meeting our overall goal of getting more people, more active, more often. "We are currently looking into developing a standard for outdoor fitness operators and trainers, to demonstrate industry professionalism and safety."

Image: Hurlingham Park, London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham – Ewan Munro