During the COVID-19 Pandemic Stratford-on-Avon District Council will issue a daily update (from Monday to Friday) for residents and businesses.
Key updates - 25 March
- Extraordinary Council - Thursday 26 March
For anyone who wishes to observe the meeting it will be live streamed and can be watched on the following link https://youtu.be/cCizk9QWOSQ
Including decision to defer introduction of charging for garden waste and increased car parking charges.
- District Council car parks
There are no current plans to make parking free. While the economy does need support the unintended consequence would be to encourage people into Stratford when there is a need to isolate. Also usage has naturally reduced, due to people adhering to Government guidelines and the closure of most of the high street. In terms of refunds, this would lead to a significant additional task at a time when resources need to be focused elsewhere to help residents and businesses who have immediate financial difficulties and need our support.
- Council tax update
The District Council has no legal power to suspend the collection of council tax. Unless or until Central Government make a decision to do so we must collect council tax. We do completely understand the pressure many households now find themselves under and urge residents to contact the District Council on 01789 267575 to apply for support through the existing Council Tax Reduction Scheme. We have already committed to suspending current enforcement action at this time.
- Homeless
While face-to-face services at the Church through The Link are suspended all rough sleepers who wish to be housed will continue to be supported. Our partners, including P3, are in contact with those who are homeless and rough sleeping on the streets.
- Main reception at Elizabeth House closed
You can still contact the District Council by phone on 01789 267575 or email in the usual way on info@stratford-dc.gov.uk or access services online at www.stratford.gov.uk
- Government Support
An initial payment of £1.6bn has been made to Councils with the majority going to authorities leading on COVID-19 who will have increased demands for providing adult and child social care services plus money to all Councils for immediate needs. The District Council has received £43,500 and Warwickshire County Council £14.07m.
Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council says: "The District Council is having to operate in a very different way. Most people are working remotely. Services are still operational and we are here to help. You will appreciate that in many areas we are under tremendous pressure as things are changing all the time.
"What people may not realise is that we cannot just tear up the existing legal and regulatory frameworks we operate under however much we may wish to. We are doing all we can to get support and advice to everyone who needs it.
"Everyone please stay safe, stay healthy and stick to Government instructions about isolation and travel. Remember this will pass."
