Portsmouth council leader 'proud' of city as residents stick to social distancing guidelines

After crowds of people headed to Southsea seafront a couple of weeks ago, recent government measures have been put in place to ensure people stay indoors.

People can leave their homes to get essential supplies from shops or for one daily exercise.

Police have been given the power to fine people, should they choose to flout the lockdown rules.

But regardless of the beautiful weekend weather, police and politicians have noted a significant drop in the number of people heading towards the seafront.

Posting on social media, Portsmouth Police said: ‘Thank you to all those staying home, we know the weather is lovely but please remember we are asking you to stay home to save the NHS.’

The weather has been sunny in Portsmouth all weekend, with high of 15 degrees celsius and barely a cloud in the sky.

Portsmouth City Council has closed roads during the weekend, to aid with the government guidelines.

Leader of Portsmouth City Council, Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, added that he was ‘proud’ of the way the city has approached the social distancing measures.

Pictures show how Portsmouth has changed since start of coronavirus lockdown

He said: ‘It would seem that people have now listened to the warnings.

‘I’m glad people have paid attention to the advice – it’s been a lovely weekend but there are other ways to enjoy the sunshine.

‘I've been out in the garden myself and it seems other people are doing the same thing, which is great.’

Cllr Vernon-Jackson says the council will be monitoring how busy the seafront is over the coming weeks, and has urged members of the public to keep indoors over the coming weeks and months.

He said: ‘We still have a long way to go with this virus, so it’s crucial that we keep this momentum going.

‘People have been really good so far and it makes me really proud of the city.

‘But the road closures are still a possibility if people do start coming to the seafront in large numbers at any stage.

‘We’re going to take things on a weekend by weekend basis, and take action accordingly.’

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