Cllr Stephen Davies and Cllr John Jones
It is difficult to know where to start as there is so much that has changed since our last article.
Let us start by looking back at this crisis. It easy in retrospect to dwell on things that could have been done better and there will be the inevitable Inquiry which I am sure will take a long cold look at the Covid Pandemic.
Locally we have seen some incredible activity.
- We have seen Local Government at both County and District Council level continue to provide key services including Adult Social Care, Children’s Services, rubbish collection and many others.
- It should not be forgotten that schools have of course remained open for the children of key workers throughout.
- County and District Council have also been responsible for the distribution of two Grant Schemes that have distributed 2,200 grants totalling £24.5m in the first scheme and a further £2m in the second scheme.
- We are now seeing the return of other activity including Highways and Planning.
However what has impressed me most of all is how Communities have come together to support those in need and the incredible work of Community volunteer groups.
Looking forward I think there are two main concerns.
The first is that we continue to be careful and maintain social distancing to avoid a second outbreak. Gloucestershire County Council has published its Covid 19 Local Outbreak Management Plan.
The second concern is for the local economy. Central Government has and I expect will continue to invest a large amount of money into the economy but there will need to be a local recovery plan organised by and delivered by Local Government. The District Council is developing a Recovery Plan. You can do your bit by shopping locally and supporting local businesses.
More locally in Eastington we continue to see the development of Great Oldbury and remain vigilant that we can make this the best possible development for the new residents in our Community.
If you have any questions on this or anything else please get in touch with us,
you can email either cllr.Stephen.davies@stroud.gov.uk or cllr.john.jones@stroud.gov.uk.