Stay local and stick to Covid rules says capital police chief

Edinburgh’s police chief is urging the public to stick to the government’s Covid regulations on gatherings in parks, beaches and beauty spots as Scotland’s ‘stay-at-home’ order changes to ‘stay local’ in time for Easter weekend.

People are being told to stay within their local authority boundaries when the restrictions start to ease from Friday, though people will no longer legally have to only leave home for essential reasons such as work, exercise and buying food.

But in Tuesday’s Covid briefing, national clinical director professor jason le itch said anyone going outside from Friday should avoid crowded places even outdoors - as this is still a concern and is the reason why outdoor meeting restrictions will still be limited to a maximum of four people from two different households.

In Edinburgh, concerns have been raised in recent days about incidents in the meadows where police have been called to disperse large numbers of youths gathering and reportedly failing to adhere to social distancing rules.

Chief Superintendent Sean Scott, Divisional Commander for Edinburgh, said: “The coronavirus regulations have had a significant impact on our lives and I would like to thank the vast majority of people who are sticking to the rules and doing the right thing to avoid the spread of the virus as we move through the easing of restrictions.

“People should not travel outwith their local authority area except for essential purposes. While Easter weekend is traditionally a time for visiting friends and family, i would urge people to stay local and follow the regulations on gatherings.

“If you are visiting beauty spots within your local area, do so safely and respectfully–leaving not race of your visit. Please also park responsibly to allow emergency access.

"Our approach throughout the pandemic has been to engage with the public, explain the legislation and encourage compliance, but we will not hesitate to use our enforcement powers as a last resort."

The ‘stay local’ rule will apply from April 2 and hairdressers, garden centres, click and collect services and homeware stores will also be allowed to reopen from April 5.