Schools back as lockdown is eased
THE borough is getting back to something approaching lockdown with enhanced local restrictions removed on Wednesday, and pupils returning to classrooms for the first time in nearly half a year.
Restrictions stopping people from visiting residents’ homes and private gardens were lifted as of September 2, with Hyndburn and Burnley falling in line with national guidance when it comes to social distancing.
Last Friday’s government announcement of restrictions being lifted for the whole borough came as something of a surprise, with Lancashire’s director of public health, Dr Sakthi Karunanithi confirming at a press conference that he did not agree with Health Secretary Matt Hancock’s decision.
Dr Sakthi told the Lancashire Resilience Forum: “My professional preference was to see this current trend [in Burnley and Hyndburn] continue for a few more days and to continue with the approach that we had suggested.”
Hyndburn council leader Coun Miles Parkinson OBE said he was “pleased” at the decision.
He said: “I would like to say well done to all Hyndburn residents for this united effort, our rate of Covid-19 incidence has reduced due to people following the guidelines and making use of our testing facilities.
“I must emphasise this does not mean covid has gone and we must prevent any further increase in rate. We must not become complacent, the rate of
Covid-19 in Hyndburn remains above the national average but below in certain towns which are all making progress. The recent decrease in rate of infection has been seen directly alongside additional safety measures and lots of people getting tested. For example on Monday alone over 180 people used the Community Testing Site at Accrington Town Hall and we hope to see this number continue to rise. Please play your part, protect our community and stay safe.”
Businesses and organisations which opened elsewhere in England on August 15, including bowling alleys and indoor play areas, will also be permitted to re-open in Hyndburn, bringing these areas in line with the rest of the country.
In a statement on Friday, Hyndburn MP Sara Britcliffe welcomed the move, but reiterated that the virus has not been defeated.
She said: “I know how difficult these restrictions have been for residents and businesses across Hyndburn and I want to thank you all for the personal sacrifices you have made throughout. It is because of your efforts that we are now able to see the restrictions eased in our community. This also means that from September 2 the businesses that couldn’t open due to the local restrictions can now reopen. I know this is welcome news. I have been doing all that I can to assist residents across Hyndburn and Haslingden throughout this difficult time and will continue to do that.”
With lockdown eased in Hyndburn, even more attention will now be focused on keeping infection rates down, especially with the new school term starting this week. Information and advice for parents of school pupils is available on the Lancashire County Council website. Bus operator Transdev also announced that many of its Blackburn and Burnley Bus Companies and Rosso routes would be returning to normal this week to ensure everyone can travel safely with the expected rise in passenger numbers.