With half term just around the corner, I’m sure many of you will be thinking of going away. If you are planning to travel, it is important to ensure you have provisions in place in case you need to self-isolate away from home. You can read more about the things you should consider before leaving the islands here: https://scilly.gov.uk/news/mainland-travel-considerations.
The government announced their much anticipated 3-tier alert system on 12 October. If you haven’t done so already, you can find information on local COVID alert levels, including what they mean, why they are being introduced and what the different levels are at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-covid-alert-levels-what-you-need-to-know. At the time of writing the Isles of Scilly remains in the ‘Medium’ category, which is the lowest possible tier and we are not aware of any new cases of coronavirus on the islands.
As the rate of COVID-19 infections continues to rise in other parts of the county, I urge you all to continue minimising the risk of spread by following the latest government guidance and social restrictions, including advice on handwashing, face coverings and social distancing. You should also consider downloading the NHS Test and Trace App if you haven’t done so already. If you are experiencing any 1 of the 3 COVID-19 symptoms you need to self-isolate immediately, and arrange for a test straight away. For the latest information on how to access a test on the islands visit: https://scilly.gov.uk/news/getting-tested-coronavirus-isles-scilly. As ever, please continue to forward any COVID-19 related questions which you cannot find the answers to on the government website to our team at keepscillysafe@scilly.gov.uk.
In non-coronavirus news, Scrutiny Committee met last week. You can listen to the audio of the meeting here: https://www.facebook.com/ioscouncil/videos/711867389768321. The reports pack for the meeting is available here: http://committees.scilly.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=251&MId=1191
If you haven’t had your say on the Local Plan modifications yet, please bear in mind that you only have until 5pm on Friday 6 November to do so. Visit this link to find out how to submit your comments: http://www.scilly.gov.uk/planning/local-plan-local-planning-policies/dra...
Nationally, there has been a bit of a return to focus on Brexit as the end of the transition period draws nearer. Government has announced a series of free webinars for businesses to find out what they need to do in preparation for the new rules which come into play in January 2021. You can sign up to these webinars here: https://www.workcast.com/ControlUsher.aspx?pak=2807339524439725
I will be taking some annual leave from today and hope to return to you all full of energy to continue with our important Council work. Vice Chairman, Cllr Fran Grottick is now deputising in my absence and I look forward to catching up on all of the latest news when I return.
Please continue to stay safe and look after one another - I hope you all have a lovely half term whatever your plans are.
Robert Francis
Chairman, Council of the Isles of Scilly