Derbyshire council leader’s important message to people thinking about visiting county this Bank Holiday weekend

Councillor Barry Lewis said: “With the Bank Holiday weekend upon us, we would normally be preparing to welcome visitors to our county with open arms.

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“Sadly this year it’s quite the opposite.

“Despite some restrictions being relaxed, this year it’s not business as usual and things are still far from normal.

“That’s why I’m joining with other Derbyshire leaders to ask visitors to respect local communities this coming Bank Holiday and postpone their trip until later in the year.

“Many local people in our communities were feeling vulnerable and at-risk following a large number of people visiting the Peak District and other parts of Derbyshire last weekend.”

He added: “We know how tempting it is to want to get away from it all – but we all need to be sensible.

“And if everyone swarms to those honey pot locations such as Matlock Bath, Bakewell, Monsal Head, Ladybower, it will make social distancing nigh on impossible, putting everyone at risk.

“If visitors are coming to Derbyshire to exercise then they need to be aware that public toilets are still expected to be closed – and like the rest of the country, pubs, restaurants, cafes and also some car parks are also closed.

“Derbyshire is a beautiful county and we understand people’s desire to visit – but a visit later in the year will help protect our local communities and you.”

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