Council teams are readying Wirral’s leisure and library facilities in anticipation of central Government’s Covid-19 response requirements over the coming months.
With the rollout of increased testing and a potential vaccine on the horizon, Wirral Council and partners are heading into the Winter arm of the COVID-19 response on the front foot.
Cllr Yvonne Nolan, Chair of Wirral Council’s Adult Social Care and Health Committee, said: “Wirral has been proactive in our response to COVID-19 throughout the pandemic and while there are currently no concrete plans in place we want to ensure that we are in the best possible position to support our residents. The best way to do this is to be prepared.”
While a vaccine is not expected to be widely available until 2021, the NHS, Local Authorities and other partners have been advised by Government to be ready to deliver a targeted vaccination programme for England from as early as next month.
By readying some key facilities in the borough, the authority will be able to respond to this next stage in the pandemic while still maintaining critical services for its communities.
As part of the works, indoor Leisure facilities at Leasowe, The Oval and Woodchurch, closed currently due to national restrictions, will remain closed for leisure purposes in the short-term, so that the buildings can continue to provide essential support to the COVID-19 response.
Cllr Nolan added: “While we are not yet privy to the finer details of the Government’s plans, what we do know is that any announcements may be given with limited warning.
“So, while our plans will be finalised when there is more certainty, our teams will continue to work flat out to put the necessary planning and infrastructure in place. So that when we are required to act, we can respond without delay.”
The plans should allow the borough to accommodate any mass testing or vaccination programmes that may be allocated to the region.
Outdoor exercise facilities will remain open for use at Leasowe.
Outdoor exercise facilities are set to re-open to the public at The Oval in the week commencing 14 December.
Main image credit RF._.studio