This coming weekend marks a significant step in our progress
out of the lockdown. From Saturday pubs, restaurants and cafes will be able to
open, along with holiday accommodation.
Whilst I understand the concerns some people have regarding
the risk of an influx of tourists to Cornwall, I believe it is right that we
take these steps, with sensible precautions in place, to open up our local
economy. Thousands of Cornish jobs depend on us doing so.
I also understand the worries that are created by some of the
scenes we have seen in places such as Bournemouth of packed beaches and clogged
roads. However, I do think we need to keep these scenes in context. The vast
majority of those who went to visit Bournemouth were day trippers heading to
the coast on the hottest day of the year. This is not something we are likely
to experience – one of the benefits of being a further three hours drive west.
Additionally, these events happened at a time when all
hospitality businesses were still closed and therefore there was little for
people to do other than head to the beach. The situation from 4th
July will be very different.
Our local businesses have been working hard to ensure they
are ready to welcome customers in a safe way. I have spent much of the last
week on video calls with different businesses and industry representatives
discussing how best we can welcome tourist and give them a positive experience
whilst minimising the risks. I am confident our local businesses are taking all
the appropriate measures to do this.
I have been assured that local holiday accommodation
providers will be reminding all their guest of their duty to behave responsibly
and respect local communities – this includes taking their rubbish with them
when they leave the beach!
But inevitably we will see many more people out and about
from this weekend – visitors and locals. We do all need to continue to follow
the guidance – maintain social distancing, washing our hands and avoiding large
crowds. We all have a responsibility to conduct ourselves in a sensible way and
not do anything to put ourselves or others at unnecessary risk.
It is also going to be a challenging time for local
businesses, especially our pubs and restaurants, who will have to adapt to meet
the new guidance. This means that those of us who do go out for a drink or
meal, to meet up with friends, perhaps for the first time in months, should be
prepared that things will not be the same as they were in March.
Businesses will be having to limit the number of customers
they allow in at any one time. Some people will have to sit outside – let’s
hope the weather is kind. The way we order food and drink, and they way it is
served to us will be different. Tables will have to be spread out, we may find
screens keeping us separate from other groups and staff wearing PPE.
All of these measures are there to keep us safe. I know at
times it may be frustrating, but let us all keep in mind that these businesses
are following the guidance issued by the government and their trade bodies. All
of these measures are in place for a reason – an important one. We should not
take out our frustrations on the staff if they are too busy to allow us in or
we cannot sit with whoever we like, or it takes longer than normal to get
served.
Many of the staff who will be serving us have faced hugely
uncertain times over the past three months.
I am confident that if we all apply common sense and abide
by the new guidelines, we can all enjoy the new freedoms available. In fact, I
would encourage us all to do so and get out and support local business.
Finally, my office is beginning to return to a more normal
way of working. Please remember my staff and I are here to help and serve you.
So if you have anything that we can help with, provide you with information or
advice, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Email – office@stevedouble.org.uk tel.
01726 829379
