If you are after a fresh-air fix, a dog walk, a quieter spot for a sit-down, or somewhere the kids can burn off steam, it is worth knowing where to look and who looks after what. For many parks and open spaces across the borough, Stafford Borough Council is a good starting point.

Start here: Stafford Borough Council parks info

The council has a handy page bringing together information on parks and open spaces, including what is available and how things are managed. If you are trying to plan a visit, check rules, or point out an issue, this is the best first click:

• Stafford Borough Council - Parks and open spaces

Reporting problems: what to do (and what to include)

Spotted a damaged bench, litter build-up, a fallen branch, or something that feels unsafe? The quickest route is usually via the relevant council service page above, where you can find the right contact route for parks and open spaces.

It helps to include:

• Exact location (name of the park/space if you know it, plus a nearby landmark)
• What the issue is and when you noticed it
• Photos if you can take them safely

Not sure who is responsible?

In and around Gnosall, some green spaces are handled by the borough, some by the parish, and some by the county (for example, certain paths or roadside verges). If you are not sure who owns or maintains a spot, start with Stafford Borough Councils parks page, then try the parish if it looks like a local facility.

• Gnosall Parish Council
• Stafford Borough Council
• Staffordshire County Council

Planning a good day out (simple checklist)

• Check what facilities are on offer before you travel (especially loos, parking, play areas and accessible routes)
• If you are walking a dog, look out for any local notices and be ready to keep them on a lead where needed
• For anything urgent and dangerous (for example, an immediate risk to the public), use the councils contact options rather than waiting

Bottom line: if it is a park or open space question, start with Stafford Borough Councils parks page, and if it turns out to be a parish-managed area, Gnosall Parish Council can point you in the right direction.