AS lockdown measures are eased around the country, West Devon Borough Council is urging both residents and visitors to observe hygiene rules to avoid a second spike.

The council is working to reopen its facilities, including playgrounds, from Saturday (July 4) in line with government guidelines and all public toilets in West Devon are now open again. In both cases, people are being urged to wash their hands, and their children’s hands, before using the facilities. Council-run indoor leisure centres remain closed for the time being in line with government advice.

Tavistock Town Council will be opening all its play parks from Saturday including The Meadows, Courtlands, Bannawell, Monksmead, Bishopsmead, Whitchurch and Ransum Way.

Cllr Neil Jory, leader of West Devon Borough Council, said: ‘I’m pleased that the more hopeful news about lower levels of infection, especially in this area, have allowed the Government to ease some lockdown restrictions.

‘I hope that this means that we are finally getting the upper hand in the fight against this virus, although everyone should still take note of the current guidance.

‘Many people will naturally be worried about an increase in visitors causing a spike in cases, but other areas of the country have reported no jump in infections following the two bank holidays in May. If we continue to maintain good hand hygiene and social distancing, we can keep our cases low as we move forward.

‘If you’re concerned about your health, or if you’re at higher risk from the virus, please look after yourself, and follow the advice from the nhs.uk/coronavirus website. Please continue to be responsible in order to continue to protect those most at risk. For our part, we’re working to reopen our facilities for residents and visitors as soon as possible.’

He added that the council was working with Devon County Council and Public Health England on contingency plans — a Local Outbreak Management Plan — in the event that virus cases do increase.

Fusion Leisure, which runs the leisure centres in West Devon, are working to reopen when government guidance allows them to do so. The WDBC offices at Kilworthy Park will remain closed for the time being, as staff are working effectively and efficiently from home.

The council has also made a number of public open spaces available for cafes and pubs to use for outside seating. These will be carefully monitored to ensure that they are kept clean and tidy, and that no anti-social behaviour results. See www.westdevon.gov.uk/useourland for locations.

Cllr Jory continued: ‘As always, the situation is constantly changing and evolving so do please follow our social media channels and keep an eye on local media for information and updates. I look forward to welcoming people back to West Devon and seeing people out and about enjoying our beautiful borough safely again.

‘Remember that everyone can play their part in keeping our infection rate low by washing your hands regularly, covering your nose and mouth in shops and other indoor public areas and keeping two metres away from others wherever possible.

‘If you are visiting the area, please remember to respect the environment and take your litter home with you. Thank you to all our residents for your good sense, your responsibility and your kindness during this difficult time.’