Libraries and museums in west Cheshire to remain closed throughout June

This comes after Cheshire West and Chester Council confirmed its approach to the reopening of facilities in the borough during the continuing coronavirus pandemic.

The council says it will continue to take a cautious approach to opening facilities across the borough, guided by public health advice.

Some sports and skate facilities did reopen in the town last week after it was determined that social distancing and good infection control could be observed.

But playgrounds or outdoor gyms are to stay closed because of the higher risk connected with close contact or touching surfaces.

The council has now confirmed that all of its community centres and pavilions, archive services and public toilets will also remain closed until a further review can be carried out giving assurances on safety.

Cllr Louise Gittins, council leader and cabinet member for wellbeing, said: “While our parks and green spaces have remained open during the period of lockdown, their facilities were originally closed in order to stop the spread of coronavirus and therefore protect our residents.

“I am sure many residents are delighted they are now able to enjoy time outdoors using sports and other facilities after they re-opened last week.

“Unfortunately, there are other services which must remain closed at the moment as the pandemic continues.

“We are reviewing our other services regularly and will, of course, make decisions based on how best to keep everyone safe.”

Residents will also see that some online reporting facilities including grass cutting are unavailable.

The council says that teams have been supporting other essential work through the recovery period, but they endeavour to resume normal frequencies of grass cutting in some areas as soon as possible.