Council leader says day-trippers should 'go somewhere else' if they break new lockdown rules in Harrogate

Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday outlined his “first sketch of a roadmap” for the gradual lifting of the lockdown measures.

He announced that from yesterday, Wednesday, people would be allowed to spend more leisure time outdoors – provided they stick to social distancing guidelines.

However, the leader of Harrogate Borough Council, Coun Richard Cooper, said this should not be seen as an invitation for people to flock to the district's parks and beauty spots.

"If people come to the district to exercise or be outdoors and find they cannot do so without breaking social distancing rules then they simply need to go somewhere else," he said.

“We are blessed in our district to have many outstanding and award-winning open spaces which attract people to all parts of our area. But that fact does not mean people can simply discard the rules and throw common sense to one side."

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The new rules mean people in England can drive anywhere in the country - as long as they keep two meters apart from people not in their household and do not cross the border into Scotland or Wales.

People are under strict instructions to return to their home before the end of the day though - and staying at holiday homes is still forbidden.

Anyone who breaks the rules will be hit with an increased fine of £100.

Sports that are physically distanced - such as golf - are also now permitted.

Meanwhile, some employees who cannot work from home are being encouraged to return to their workplaces.

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Coun Cooper added: "We are a big district with a lot of open spaces. If people behave sensibly, use their common sense and respect social distancing while enjoying the outdoors then being in the fresh air again should not be a confusing, dangerous or difficult activity.

“Wherever people go and whatever actions they take over the next few weeks and months they need to follow the guidance and apply their common sense to what they are doing.

"If we all do that and maintain social distancing wherever possible we will come through this a lot quicker."

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter

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