On-street parking bays at Seaton Carew to be sealed-off to create more walking space for pedestrians

From Friday, May 22, the on-street parking bays along The Front in Seaton Carew, covering the main shopping area, are to be coned off and motorists will not be able to access them.

Hartlepool Borough Council chiefs said the new measures are being introduced to ensure pedestrians can safely observe social distancing and will be in place 'indefinitely'.

A council statement said: "The bays will effectively become an extension of the existing footpath, creating more space to enable people to stay two metres apart.

"The measures, which are in line with current Government Covid-19 guidance, are to remain in place indefinitely although they will be reviewed at regular intervals."

It comes after council chiefs called on visitors to stay away from Hartlepool temporarily to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

The request came ahead of the bank holiday weekend and anticipated warmer weather, with statistics showing the virus continues to pose a serious threat and cases locally have not yet peaked.

Councillor Shane Moore, leader of the council, 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?"

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.

Coastal car parks in Hartlepool also remain closed and council chiefs warned enforcement action will be taken where necessary.

Councils around the UK have been taking steps to make commuters safer as more people return to work while the coronavirus crisis continues.

Authorities have been looking at changes to make it easier for people to walk and cycle to work to reduce the numbers of passengers on public transport.

Council chiefs are also looking at ways of making it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to stay two metres apart, as per public health guidance.

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