SPECIAL measures have been brought in across South Somerset as the district follows the government's latest restrictions to combat coronavirus.

The second national lockdown came into affect today and businesses have been closing across England.

South Somerset District Council has also taken a number of actions to ensure public safety in line with the new guidelines.

Council Leader Val Keitch said: “We need to do all we can to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and South Somerset District Council is committed to doing whatever is needed to help people directly and to support our communities and businesses through this difficult period.

“All our officers and councillors are working hard to ensure that, despite these challenges, services are delivered in the best and safest way possible. We are using all the knowledge and experience from the first national lockdown to ensure our crucial services are there for you during this period.

“Working together and following the latest guidance will get us through this next phase of the pandemic.”

Actions taken by the council include:

  • The Octagon Theatre and Westlands entertainment venue closed yesterday (November 4) with all events until Wednesday, December 2, cancelled or postponed. Refunds will be offered on any bookings during this period. The box office will remain open Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm for enquiries and bookings for future events.
  • SSDC offices and buildings will remain closed to the public. Council meetings will continue online.
  • An emergency phoneline will be available at SSDC's Customer Connect hub in Petters Way for anyone needing urgent help with housing.
  • Facilities at Yeovil Recreation Centre will be closed during the lockdown period. This decision will be reviewed as we are awaiting further detailed guidance from the Government. The grounds and play facilities will still be available for daily exercise.
  • Leisure and gym sites owned by the council will be closed during the period of new national restrictions – this includes Goldenstones, Wincanton Sports Centre and Westlands Leisure Centre.
  • Cartgate Tourist Information Centre closed at 5pm yesterday (Wednesday) for the duration of the new national restrictions.
  • Country parks and play areas will remain open.
  • Ninesprings Café will offer a takeaway only service from Thursday for the duration of the new national restrictions.
  • Our Customer Access Points will be closed where the building or supporting services are closed.
  • Countryside volunteering finished yesterday (Wednesday) and will only resume when it is safe to do so in light of national guidelines.

A spokesman for SSDC added: "Our website will be continually updated with any actions as further details around the new restrictions are released."

A summary of actions outlined by the Government can be found here.

"In addition, South Somerset District Council will continue to work will local community organisations to ensure those who are vulnerable or facing hardship are supported, and facilitate a number of grants to local foodbanks," said the council spokesman.

"The council will also continue to ensure anyone who is homeless or facing homelessness has a safe place to stay."

The council is preparing to accept applications and issue grants to those businesses that are entitled and will provide more information on this once the full government guidance has been issued.

The council is also issuing payments to those that are entitled who are required to self-isolate.

Parks and green spaces, including Country Parks, will remain open for exercise while the Zwings e-scooter trial in Yeovil will continue with additional measures in place to ensure public safety.

For the latest information about Coronavirus in the UK, including how to keep yourself and your community safe, visit the Government website. 

If you are facing financial hardship and need support, please contact South Somerset District Council on 01935 462462 or use the online form at southsomerset.gov.uk/life-events/coronavirus-support/who-can-i-speak-to.

The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline number, 0300 790 6275, is also live to help you access help you may need, including emotional support, in the current crisis.