'Why take the risk?' - visitors urged to stay away from Hartlepool over sunny bank holiday weekend, with coastal car parks remaining closed

The request has been made by Hartlepool Borough Council ahead of the second May Bank Holiday weekend and anticipated warmer weather.

It comes at a time when statistics show the virus continues to pose a serious threat and cases locally have not yet peaked.

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.

Council chiefs have therefore called on residents to stay at home where possible and for visitors not to come to Hartlepool.

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?

“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.”

It comes after similar calls were made by council chiefs last week following the easing of some lockdown restrictions by Government.

Council chiefs also called on residents to respect Covid-19 restrictions after cases of taped off children’s play areas being used across the town.

Dr Patricia Riordan, the council’s director of public health, warned of the coronavirus dangers still present in Hartlepool.

She added: “While the disease may have peaked in London, that is not the case here and, clearly, we are not yet out of danger.”

Council chiefs also reiterated people should make only essential journeys and stay at home wherever possible.

They added they intend to keep coastal car parks closed this weekend and again warned enforcement action will be taken where necessary.

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