More bins, toilets, litter cops and covid marshalls will be posted on the beach this summer to cope with what’s expected to be a huge influx of staycationers.
The number of tourists visiting Brighton and Hove is expected to exceed even last year’s crowds because of the prospect of foreign travel restrictions stopping holidays abroad.
And unlike last summer, scores of events are expected to take place as lockdown is gradually lifted over the coming weeks and months.
Chief Superintendent Nick May said: “Our number one priority is the safety of our local communities, and we are working closely with partners to ensure that the city will be reopened to residents and visitors in a safe way when restrictions allow.
“We will continue to engage, explain and encourage people to adhere to the rules to prevent a rise in infections at this critical point in the pandemic.”
Council leader Phélim Mac Cafferty said: “We are at a crucial moment and as the economy begins to re-open it will be more important than ever to act safely and prevent the spread of infection.
“Covid has not gone away, and the vaccination programme is ongoing, so it is imperative we all do everything possible to keep the number of cases down and keep the pressure off the NHS.
“We welcome responsible visitors and ask that they and residents continue the practices learned during lockdown and give space, wear face coverings and use hand sanitisers.
“Everyone is longing to enjoy the hospitality and culture that our city is famous for, but we need to get the balance right, with protecting health the most important priority at every stage.”
The council is part of a partnership group which is working together to re-open the city safely. The group includes Sussex Police, emergency services, public health, transport providers and other organisations.
They are preparing for an anticipated increase in visitors from Easter and will co-ordinate operations on the seafront, city centre and parks, enabling people to continue Covid-safe behaviour to protect themselves and others.
The government has set out a step-by-step ‘roadmap’ for the cautious easing of lockdown restrictions. This began on 8 March with children returning to school.
From 1 April the council, police and partners will meet weekly to co-ordinate operations to manage an expected increase in visitors from Easter.
Businesses will have access to support hubs and training in Covid-safe practices.
Other measures include additional environmental health officers to support events, hospitality and licensed premises and Covid marshals to welcome back visitors and remind people of physical distancing. The council is also investigating options for additional toilet provision during the summer.
The council is now recruiting seasonal lifeguards and aiming to provide a full service from 29 May to 5 September.
Don’t forget to provide more parking spaces. There is still lots of unused space on Madeira drive…