Hunstanton cliff car park re-opens as coronavirus lockdown eases
A West Norfolk seaside car park has re-opened this morning as part of the easing of coronavirus restrictions.
The cliff top site in Hunstanton has been shut during the lockdown, but is now available to visitors following updated guidance from the government.
But West Norfolk Council leaders are calling for would-be visitors to think about how their travel might affect the people living in our coastal areas and not to flout the rules that still remain in place.
Stuart Dark, the authority's cabinet member for emergency planning, said: "The Government has reiterated that the use of second homes or staying overnight in accommodation that is not where you live is still not allowed.
"It is important that people take heed of that advice and don't see the relaxation in travel as a free pass to visit second homes or friends and family in the area."
Many retail and leisure premises remain closed and officials have warned that people may want to consider the potential risk of using public toilets if they do travel.
Although the facilities are still open, the council says social distancing in them is "virtually impossible."
Mr Dark said the easing of restrictions "naturally" raised concerns among local people.
He said: "While we support the Government's move to give people more freedom, which I am sure will be welcome for food businesses in the resorts and will slowly help us on our way to recovery, we do have to be mindful of our residents who are worried that this move will bring increased risk of infection to the area.
"We would ask visitors to follow the government guidance (for safe travel, which includes a checklist of what to take) and to ensure that they bring hand sanitiser with them to use frequently.
"We hope that travellers will be sensible and won't all come to the resort at peak times, spreading their journeys across the week and through the day."
Officials say there will be signage reminding visitors of social distancing guidelines and the use of hand sanitiser and face coverings is recommended.
The authority is also encouraging drivers to download its parking app, so they don't have to use the ticket machines when they arrive, or alternatively cover their fingers or use a blunt object such as a pen to press the buttons.
Mr Dark added: "Our approach is to ensure that all car parks remain open, so that visitors can get in, get parked and easily get to the beach, promenade and The Green with as little impact as possible on the local community.
"We will be checking food businesses and kiosks in the area, to ensure that they are compliant with the new guidance issued, to help keep the risks down.
"It is known that the virus travels less well in the open, and we do have lovely long, wide beaches, so people should be able to socially distance themselves when enjoying their visit."
