Fresh 'stay away from Hartlepool' appeal as figures show town's infection rate higher than 75% of other areas in England

As reported earlier in the week, council chiefs have urged people to stay away from the town as warm weather and the bank holiday weekend present a temptation for visitors after lockdown measures were eased.

Coastal car parks are remaining closed, and on-street parking bays have been sealed off in Seaton Carew to create more space for pedestrians to keep two metres apart from others.

The council has also warned enforcement action will be taken where necessary.

Dr Patricia Riordan, Director of Public Health at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Hartlepool did have one of the lowest COVID-19 infection rates in the North East until May 12th.

“Unfortunately, since that time our trajectory has noticeably increased and cases are continuing to rise at a rate which would suggest we have not reached our peak. According to statistics up to May 20th, Hartlepool had a COVID-19 infection rate of 342 per 100,000 – higher than 75% of local authority areas in England.”

In addition, the North-East’s COVID-19 R rate - the average number of people that an infected person will pass the virus on to – is the highest in the country at 0.80 and double that of London.

The council has warned Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of the Council, said people should make only essential journeys and stay at home wherever possible

Repeating concerns from earlier in the week, he said: “Our priority continues to be to limit the impact this vile virus has on our communities and our vulnerable residents, so our message is simple – why take the risk? With this in mind, we would politely ask visitors to stay away.

“I hope people understand that this is designed to be a short-term measure that safeguards people’s health and we look forward to the day when we will again be able to welcome visitors with open arms.”

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