CORONAVIRUS: Phased return of important neighbourhood and streetscene services

Published Friday, 1st May 2020

Hartlepool Borough Council has announced the phased return of a number of services temporarily suspended as it dealt with phase one of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Councillor Shane Moore, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Due to the unprecedented nature of the Coronavirus crisis, we reluctantly had to suspend a number of services to reduce the risk of the virus spreading and to help keep services running that are essential to life and tackling the impact of COVID-19.

“Unfortunately, we had no choice but to follow national guidance and prioritise what we do and we are very grateful to residents and businesses for their understanding and support throughout this challenging time.

“However, services have been under constant review and – as we prepare to enter phase two of the Coronavirus crisis – and taking into account factors such as staff levels, new methods of working and changes in Government guidance, we are now in a position to reinstate some services.”

The changes are as follows:

  • The Household Waste Recycling Centre will reopen on Wednesday 13 May using a pre-booked permit system approach (details to be announced separately). However, residents should only travel to the HWRC as a last resort to dispose of household waste.
  • We are hoping to reintroduce Garden waste collections before the end of May on a reduced frequency (details to be announced separately).
  • While we have continued to undertake some aspects of our cleansing and grounds maintenance functions during these unprecedented times – street cleaning, grass cutting, litter picking and weed control, will all return at reduced levels on Monday 4 May.

Councillor Moore added: “I am really pleased we are now in a position to announce the phased return of these important services.

“However, we will need to continue to monitor and review how things are working and adapt as necessary.

“I’m very grateful to residents across the town for playing their part in the fight against coronavirus and I know many of you have been helping keep Hartlepool’s streets and green spaces clean by taking any litter home with you when you are out exercising and we still need your support with this.

“Most importantly, please continue to stay at home and follow government advice.”

Information about Council services and changes during the current pandemic can be found on our website at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/coronavirus