Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill talks about lockdown being eased

In his latest column, Lincolnshire County Council leader Martin Hill talks about lockdown being eased:

This has been the first week that significant parts of the lockdown rules have started to ease.

We’ve seen more people returning to work, socially distanced gatherings allowed with small groups, and some schools starting to welcome back children in some age groups.

At the county council, we continue to prioritise keeping our vital services running and open, albeit providing them in different ways to keep everyone safe.

We’ve now had over 25,000 bookings for slots at household waste recycling centres, and have received some really positive feedback about how the new system works.

You can now book up to seven days in advance and we’ve allocated certain days to certain waste types, which are now the same across the county. To find out more about what can be taken to the tips and to book an appointment, please visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/clickandtip

The majority of schools across Lincolnshire are now beginning to re-open their doors to more pupils, as requested by the government. The decision to re-open or not rests with the schools.

Those re-opening have introduced measures to limit the potential spread of coronavirus, such as smaller class sizes or staggered break times, helping to keep pupils and staff safe as they return to the classroom.

Where children are still at home, there are a range of resources available to families allowing children to continue some of their learning.

One of the most difficult things in care settings during lockdown has been maintaining contact between care home residents and their loved ones. I’m delighted that we have been able to provide 30 Facebook Portals to care homes and another 5 to supported living venues this week.

The portals have been donated by NHSX as part of a national scheme, and I’m sure this will be a huge support in helping residents reach their families.

Last week, outdoor markets and car showrooms were able to reopen, with all other retailers eligible to reopen from June 15, but only if it is safe to do so.

Leisure facilities, hospitality, beauty and hairdressing businesses may be set to open from early July, but this will be kept under review.

There is guidance to support the reopening of the high street shops, detailing the measures retailers should take to meet social distancing and hygiene standards and to become Covid-19 secure.

Businesses in our area needing information and support about re-opening can contact South Kesteven District Council or visit the Business Lincolnshire website – Business Lincolnshire

Alternatively you can call the helpline on 01522 782189, to get support in doing this.

As always, you can find updates on all our services at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/coronavirus and all the latest national guidance at www.gov.uk/coronavirus