Car parks to re-open as Tendring moves into step one of lock-down relaxation

Car parks in Tendring are to be re-opened in line with the Government’s phased recovery plan to bring the country out of lock-down.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has kept all services running where social distancing and Covid-19 regulations have allowed, though many are operating in a different way.

Car parks had been closed to discourage people from travelling to parks or seafronts for exercise when the restrictions had banned that.

But as step one of the Government’s recovery plan comes into effect today (Wednesday 13 May), TDC will be re-opening car parks to support the new measures which allow people to drive for exercise, or to use public open space individually or in household groups.

Public toilets will not be opened immediately, but work is taking place to assess how the amenities can be safely maintained and operated by TDC staff.

However, people are not permitted to stay at second homes or caravans.

Elsewhere across the council staff will continue to work from home where possible, and offices remain closed to the public. Engineering, gardening and other outdoor services will continue to operate following social distancing guidelines.

Neil Stock OBE, TDC Leader, said these were the first steps to emerging from the lockdown.

“We need to keep in step with the national phased recovery plan, and our journey to return to business will not happen overnight,” Cllr Stock said.

“Where we can re-open things we will – but only when we are satisfied it is safe for both our staff and the public to do so.

“It’s absolutely vital that people stick to the guidance and follow the basics: social distancing of at least two metres from those outside of their own household, regular handwashing – for example after touching communal surfaces such as ticket machines – and using their common sense.

“Our car parks, and hopefully soon some of our public toilets, are open to support those exercising or enjoying public spaces. They are not there to encourage everyone back to shops or to hang out in groups.”

For the latest information on how TDC services are impacted by Covid-19, visit www.tendringdc.gov.uk/coronavirus.

13/5/2020

NEWSDESKS

For more information on this news release contact Tendring District Council’s Communications Manager Will Lodge on 01255 686338.