Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 24th June 2020) below:
Coronavirus
The latest Covid-19 (Coronavirus) figures for our region are very encouraging.
The South West was listed as having the lowest “r” rate in England, with a rate estimated between 0.6 & 0.9. Yet whilst this did not get the level of coverage in the national media the previous week’s news of our region having the highest did, it must be taken with the same caveat. Numbers are now so consistently low across the large South West region very small variations can affect the “r” significantly.
A small outbreak, even just a large family, becoming infected could push it up even if cases remain, in numerical terms, very small over a large area. Hence the focus now on tracking those outbreaks and ensuring they do not spread, rather than looking to implement measures across our whole region.
Our region and bay avoided the worst of the epidemic and the actions of our NHS and Social Care teams saved lives. Yet we cannot become complacent and localised outbreaks across the UK have reminded us there are some places where Covid-19 is still able to spread. Hence it is vital we continue to follow social distancing advice, wash our hands regularly and remember to wear a face covering when using public transport.
Re-Opening Our Bay
It has been good to see many local businesses re-open over the last week.
Early July will see our attractions, hotels and guest houses re-open for business. I know some residents are still nervous about what this could mean, yet the evidence of recent weeks shows we can safely relax the lockdown rules and keep the virus in check, provided appropriate measures are taken.
I have been pleased to work with the Leadership of Torbay Council and our Tourism Sector as we look ahead to safely welcoming back the many visitors already making bookings for July and August. It is vital we all work as a team to ensure this summer is a success.
Smaller businesses in our bay did their bit to protect our community and observe the lockdown, but many have been hit hard financially for doing so. Every pound spent in them by residents over the coming weeks could determine whether they stay in business.
Future High Streets
The recent lockdown has accelerated the changes affecting our high streets and Town Centres.
Paignton’s Future High Streets project is vital, bringing with it the potential of millions of pounds of Government funding for regeneration work.
The plans being developed will help restore the best, such as the Picture House, and remove the worst blights like Crossways. They cannot come a moment too soon.
Surgery Times
Based on current advice relating to the Coronavirus I have cancelled my regular advice surgeries and drop-in sessions at my East St Office until further notice.
I hope to restart them as soon as possible, but in the meantime a telephone call surgery appointment can be arranged. Please note due to the current level of demand these telephone surgeries are for urgent personal matters, such as welfare, immigration, problems accessing support and benefits, rather than to discuss policy or the wider situation nationally.
You can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989 and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.
