Date issued: 19 March 2020
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Nick Cope, has praised the community spirit being shown around the borough in the face of national measures being put in place to tackle the spread of COVID-19.
His message to the residents of Colchester follows:
“I know that many in our community are increasingly concerned, like me, by the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and troubled by the measures being asked of each one of us to stem the tide of infection, which are unprecedented in peacetime history.
“Even in wartime, cafes and cinemas stay open and public life carries on as usual. That’s how you know this is a different thing altogether from whatever else you have seen in your lifetime.
“We should take comfort whenever we can and wherever we find it. Whilst the situation continues to develop rapidly, the response so far in our community has been incredibly heartening – with local groups and individuals stepping forward to support some of our most vulnerable residents.
“The council is also doing a great deal to provide some clarity and reassurance at this very difficult time. It is doing everything it can to help coordinate and support communities, businesses and especially to assist those older and more vulnerable residents who will need to isolate themselves as this virus spreads.
“On Monday, the council announced it was stepping up its plans to tackle the coronavirus with all the group leaders agreeing to work across the political spectrum to protect frontline services, keep staff safe and key services running.
“Moving forward, expect this to mean the council communicating clearly and frequently with residents about the actions being taken and to inform people of the actions they can also take in their local community.
“It is vitally important that we all follow the Government’s social distancing advice, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. That is why – in light of Government advice – we have closed our buildings including all Leisure World sites, Charter Hall, and Colchester Castle until further notice.
“However, thanks to the valiant efforts of our hard-working staff we are ensuring the work of the council continues with key services like the Community Hub and the Waste and Recycling Service currently operating as usual. Our parks, public spaces and public toilets will also remain open.
“As with everything the council is doing right now, this will be kept under constant review and in line with the very latest Government advice.
“I, for my part, have decided to cancel all official engagements until further notice, but may still be contacted throughout this difficult time via email at mayor@colchester.gov.uk or Facebook at www.facebook.com/colchester.gov.uk/
“For the latest news on the council’s work to help stop the spread of the coronavirus please see http://www.colchester.gov.uk/coronavirus
“Please stay safe, everyone.”
Page last reviewed: 19 March 2020