THE outbreak of Coronavirus has had to change many of the ways councils operate. Much time is being given to considering the emerging guidance from the government in a fast-moving situation with changes needed to normal working practices.

Road maintenance

The initial problem sourcing materials and carrying out emergency work only due to the local quarries closing at the beginning of the coronavirus situation, has now largely been overcome with most of the contractors back to work. However, new working practices have had to be introduced and followed by the workforce, including social distancing measures. Road maintenance work continues including filling in potholes.

Re-allocating road and pavement space

Many people have discovered or rediscovered cycling and walking with the cleaner air and quieter streets. In response to this and the need for social distancing, the government has produced new guidelines for councils to follow, financed through the Emergency Active Travel Fund. Not-seen-before traffic signs to support social distancing for pedestrians and for drivers and cyclists are being introduced in many places along with pop-up bike lanes and wider pavements. Let me know any ideas you may have and I will forward them onto the local highway officers.

Most bus service’s revert to normal timetable

The 5, 5A, 5B and 5C - Exeter – Crediton - Okehampton/ Barnstaple / Chulmleigh Stagecoach services will revert to normal timetable today, Sunday, June 14, with minor revisions. Carmel Coaches is running normal services and Dartline will continue to run normal services. It is expected most other bus services within the county will be back to normal, but you are advised to check by contacting the bus company concerned.

Help for local community organisations

Applications for funds by community organisations doing important work during these difficult times are invited. The Locality Budget is available to help. Several organisations including Crediton Age Concern and some local schools have benefited recently by securing grants. Any organisation wanting to apply for a grant should, in the first instant, contact their local County Councillor.

Punchbowl Recycling Centre

Most will know locally that Punchbowl has reopened. This is still only providing a limited service but, at the time of writing, cars with trailers are now being allowed onto the site. Because of social distancing measures the centre’s staff are unable to help with unloading. However, anyone disposing articles is strongly advised to check what conditions apply before visiting the centre.