Low chance of lockdown says expert
THE chances of local lockdown restrictions being imposed in West Lancashire remain relatively low, according to the county council’s acting director of public health.
Abdul Razaq, acting director of public health at Lancashire County Council, said that although preparations were being made by borough councils, Covid19 rates remain well below other nearby areas.
Earlier this month, Preston followed Greater Manchester and East Lancashire in having local restrictions implemented which prevent multiple households meeting up in homes, gardens or indoor venues such as pubs and restaurants.
West Lancashire Borough councillor Ron Cooper then warned that local prevention plans were being made “anticipation that lockdown measures will be put in place”, while council chiefs begged residents to follow guidelines and prevent similar action being taken in the borough.
But in a press conference last week, Mr Razaq explained that measures being taken in West Lancashire were to prevent a spike in positive cases which may push towards new restrictions being imposed.
He said: “In terms of South Ribble and West Lancashire, the rates are relatively low as compared with Pendle, Hyndburn, Burnley, and Preston.
“In each of those areas the district councils have stood up their Covid prevention task force groups which are actually meeting on a regular basis, if not daily.
“Within those plans they are stepping up the plans around the high risk businesses and making sure they are Covidsecure, making sure that the proper messaging is reinforced and clearly pushing for additional testing within those areas.”
THE Mayor of West Lancashire, Councillor Terence Aldridge, is urging everyone in West Lancashire to stay safe and follow the national guidance about Coronavirus as areas across the North West are needing to impose local lockdown measures.
Cllr Aldridge said: “It is so important we stay safe and look after each other. Coronavirus is still here and if we all pull together we can do the best for West Lancs”.
National guidance is to regularly wash your wash for at least 20 seconds especially when entering your home, keeping a safe distance and wearing a mask in enclosed spaces such as shops.