Police will be on patrol York this weekend – the first after the latest easing of lockdown restrictions.
North Yorkshire and British Transport Police will be joined by the council’s covid support marshals, environmental health and neighbourhood enforcement officers and York BID street rangers.
They will be checking that people and businesses are complying with the remaining covid restrictions. These include premises following the rule of 6 indoors, that tables are spaced and customers are giving track and trace details.
And they will be asking businesses to encourage workers to be tested regularly and take up vaccinations when offered.
Superintendent Mike Walker, who is leading North Yorkshire Police’s response to the pandemic, said: “It’s set to be a much busier time in York this weekend now that the restrictions on indoor hospitality and overnight stays, in particular, have been eased as part of the Government’s Roadmap Out of Lockdown.
“Our officers and staff will be on hand to provide a highly visible and reassuring presence. They will also be working alongside City of York Council teams and other partners to ensure the reopening of pubs and restaurants is carried out in a Covid-secure environment.
“The police will only take action against blatant breaches of the health protection regulations.”
Keep your distance
Cllr Denise Craghill, executive member for housing and safer communities, said: “We’re slowly easing up, but we need to remember to be careful. I urge anyone wanting to enjoy the city centre to check in advance with venues to ensure that there is space and that bookings are available.
“Please also avoid any unnecessary social contact with those who are not part of your household or support bubble, and please keep following the ‘hands, face, space and fresh air’ advice from the health experts.”
Andrew Lowson, executive director of York BID, said: “It’s important for everyone to enjoy the best of the city safely while supporting local businesses. Our street rangers will be helping the city do just that this weekend and we’re pleased to be part of this joint operation.”
York public health officials are urging people to get take symptom-free tests twice a week and record the result online. In the city centre, testing is available at St William’s College, College Green.
More information on other test sites and where to pick up home tests in York is available here.