Concerns have been raised in the Burnham-On-Sea area that relaxed rules allowing longer car journeys could leave the area “inundated” with visitors.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has this week announced that people can travel by car for “unlimited outdoor exercise” from Wednesday while still continuing with social distancing.
Several residents have contacted Burnham-On-Sea.com, saying they fear an influx of visitors to the area could lead to a spike in Coronavirus cases.
One local business owner says it would be “counter-productive to encourage people from further afield to come here when the area’s holiday parks, attractions, cafes and most shops are still closed. We love tourists, but we are not out of the woods yet and it would be crazy to welcome visitors until the lockdown fully ends.”
It comes as a 50-page supporting document published by the government this week outlines some of the changes being introduced from Wednesday, as outlined below.
Things you can do from Wednesday:
At all times, the guidance states that you must continue to observe social distancing guidelines when you are outside your home, including ensuring you are 2 metres away from anyone outside your household.
- Spend more time outdoors – for example sitting and enjoying the fresh air, picnicking, or sunbathing
- Meet one other person from a different household outdoors – following social distancing guidelines
- Exercise outdoors as often as you wish – following social distancing guidelines
- Use outdoor sports courts or facilities, such as a tennis or basketball court, or golf course with members of your household, or one other person while staying 2 metres apart
- Go to a garden centre
Things you still cannot do from Wednesday:
The lockdown means you still cannot:
- Visit friends and family in their homes
- Exercise in an indoor sports court, gym or leisure centre, or go swimming in a public pool
- Use an outdoor gym or playground
- Visit a private or ticketed attraction
- Gather in a group of more than two (excluding members of your own household), except for a few specific exceptions set out in law (for work, funerals, house moves, supporting the vulnerable, in emergencies and to fulfil legal obligations)
The Prime Minister also said people in England should also wear face coverings in enclosed places, such as in some shops and on public transport. Fines for those who break the rules will rise to £100.
