Leader’s statement on the end of lockdown 2, December 2020

Leader of the Vale of White Horse District Council, Cllr Emily Smith, says:

“Thank you to everyone who has followed the government’s rules during lockdown, your efforts have had a positive impact on infection rates, but we need to keep going.  As many of our pubs, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues are re-opening, they will be working hard to keep everyone safe by following the rules.

“It’s good for our economy that people can go out for a meal, or do some Christmas shopping locally, but the pandemic is not over yet and we all need to remain careful.

“Please do support our local businesses and shops if you can do so safely. We have got some free parking days in car parks across the district and you can see the details about those on our website.

“I know how hard lockdown has hit local traders and want to remind them of the £2.5m available in support grants to help them survive the pandemic. There are new support schemes for businesses in Tiers 2 and 3 coming very soon. Even if you’ve received a grant already, you may be eligible for more support.

“With the rest of Oxfordshire, we’re now in Tier 2. This still means we are on high alert and we must all continue to play our part in preventing the spread of the virus and keeping each other safe.”