Police plead with public to 'stay at home' after increase in visitors to Preston docks reported

After an increase in calls from concerned residents at Preston docks over breaches of social distancing guidelines and large groups of people, Preston police will now be patrolling the area in a bid to disperse groups of people and question visitors.

However today, the docks stood almost empty with very few visitors braving the rain and cold weather.

Sergeant Anne Otter said: "Our response to social distancing is all about keeping people safe and protecting the NHS.

"We receive numerous calls from the public every day following concerns of breaches of COVID regulations and respond to many of them.

"We take a proportionate approach and always try to engage with people and explain any confusion over rules, however, where appropriate for those who do flout the rules, we will enforce.

"We will be ensuring our staff are in the area of the docks over the coming days to speak with people and establish why they are there and taken action if appropriate.

"We plead with the public to stay at home and follow the regulations in the spirit they are intended – to keep people safe."

It was considered that one of the reasons for an increase in visitors flocking to the docks was to purchase takeaway food and drink from Mariners Way.

And images were shared online of the council-owned car park, opposite Mc Donalds, busy with parked cars and visitors.

Currently, the official guidance states that you must not leave your home unless for basic essential medical and shopping needs for work or for exercising within your support bubble.

Councillor Peter Moss, Cabinet member for planning and regulation, said: “I understand that the latest national lockdown and the restrictions this entails is tough on everyone. As a council we’re working hard with our partners to keep residents and businesses safe and to help stop the spread of the virus.

“Many local people will be using the dock basin car park whilst out for their daily exercise, which is within the current government guidelines. However, I ask that people do everything they can to give one another space when exercising outside.

“Takeaways are also permitted to trade, but should be ensuring queuing customers do so safely and in a socially distanced manner. Our Environmental Health team and partners at Lancashire Police are working hard to ensure this is happening and that businesses are aware of the latest restrictions and steps they must take.

“I would urge everyone to take personal responsibility and follow guidelines to protect each other, our families, and the NHS.”

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