Borough’s economy in need of aid, says leader
WEST Lancashire’s economy could collapse leaving huge numbers of people without jobs if further Government support isn’t provided.
That is the warning from West Lancashire Borough Council leader Cllr Ian Maher who fears that local strict new lockdown restrictions could have a devastating impact on businesses.
Tightened restrictions were brought in last month covering the whole of Lancashire and Merseyside and the prospect of stricter procedures remains a very realistic prospect as the number of Covid-19 cases continue to rise.
In the week ending September 27, the number of positive results in West Lancs rose to 123.4 per 100,000 people from 76.1 the previous the week.
Amid fears over the impact of any further restrictions, Cllr Moran has written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson to request more support for local businesses.
He said: “If restrictions are to be tightened in West Lancashire and the county as a whole to protect our communities it is vital that the government provide support for our local economy.
“People are really worried about their businesses and there is a danger that if emergency funding packages don’t arrive from government the whole local economy could collapse which would cost many people their jobs.”
Cllr Moran added “What is really needed is an effective test and trace system to help us to tackle the virus and protect the health and wellbeing of the people of West Lancashire.
“I would also urge everyone to play their part by keeping to the new rules and follow the government advice about washing hands regularly, keeping your distance from others you don’t live with and wearing a face covering where appropriate.”