Coronavirus: Havant Borough Council aims to keep services available despite disruption

The government’s advice on preventing the spread of the virus has meant many of the council’s day-to-day working practices have had to stop or change.

Councillor Michael Wilson, leader of the council, said: ‘This is an unprecedented situation and our priority is and will always be the health and wellbeing of everyone living, working and visiting the borough.

‘We are implementing our business continuity plans to ensure our services remain operational and available to serve and support our communities.

‘We are finding new, safe ways to continue with our democratic procedures and we are supporting our community groups who are assisting the most vulnerable in our society to ensure they are helped through this crisis safely.

‘We will also highlight any changes to services on our other channels including social media and email alerts. Please follow our social media accounts or sign up to the email alerts.’

Referring to services, a council statement said: ‘The council will do everything it can to keep delivering the services residents rely on but in this unprecedented situation there may be some disruption.

‘Our critical services will be prioritised.’

No council run events are scheduled to be held during the next 12 weeks but the authority will continue to review events due to be held on council land.

The council will be working with other authorities and organisations to help those affected by the outbreak, including liaising with Hampshire County Council, the voluntary sector and community groups to provide assistance to vulnerable people.

Citizens Advice Havant will continue to provide a face to face service for the foreseeable future delivering from the council plaza, Leigh Park Community Centre and Hayling Island as long as the buildings remain open.

There will be business support with some not expected to pay business rates while others may be eligible for a £10,000 grant.

The council is liaising with the government to work out the detail of these schemes and more information will be posted at www.havant.gov.uk/business-rates.

The meeting of cabinet, full council and development management committee will all take place next week in the Public Service Plaza, Havant.

The public gallery will remain open but there will be reduced seating due to social spacing in line with current government guidance.

There will also be a live streaming of these via Facebook Live.

For regular updates on services go to: www.havant.gov.uk/coronavirus

Or contact the council on 023 9244 6019 or email [email protected].

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