This week local case numbers have once again more than doubled from 142.6 to 322.1 infections per 100,000 people. The new surge in covid cases is serious, affecting all sectors of our local community, with a significant number of school children being required to self-isolate, as well some local businesses and community services ordered to close, or reduce their operating hours.

We’re grateful to all those who are spearheading the response, by setting-up and running mobile testing units, distributing testing kits and continuing to provide business advice and support.

Let’s also do our bit to help contain this surge by keeping-up the safe practices we know all too well. Free testing options remain available; by home delivery, at a local test centre or collection from a participating pharmacy. Remember too that Test & Trace support payments continue for those required to self-isolate.

This weekend several local walk-in COVID vaccination clinics will be popping-up again, including at Stoneleigh NAEC and Lisle Court Medical Centre, Brunswick Street, Leamington. This service provides an easy way for every adult to come and receive their first or second vaccination (after 8 weeks). There’s no need to book, so just come and #GrabAJab.

Progress with the local Recovery Plan continues this week:

South Warwickshire Climate Change Action Programme

This is set for approval by the Warwick and Stratford-on-Avon District Councils.  Both Cabinets will meet to consider a report paving the way to intensify their work to respond to the climate emergency, delivering key recommendations brought forward by the People’s Inquiry.

Future High Street Funding

This is being rolled-out through a three-year plan to be approved by Cabinet, which will see improvements to significant listed buildings, the creation of pedestrian and cycle corridors and the rejuvenation of Spencer Yard as a hub for creative and digital industries.

Riverside House

A fresh brief for the regeneration of the Riverside House site is due to be confirmed and shared for public consultation over the summer. New thinking, driven by our response to the Climate Emergency and a recognition that the pandemic has fundamentally changed the way we work, means that this key site can come forward for a changed purpose.

Should the Cabinet approve the development brief, we’ll promptly engage the Town Council, the Leamington Society, the Chamber of Trade, other local community groups and neighbours.

Leamington station forecourt

Also, on the agenda at a busy Cabinet meeting is the programme of investment to the Leamington Station forecourt and underpass. The CWLEP funded scheme is progressing well and due to be completed for the 2022 Commonwealth Games next summer, ready to welcome visitors from around the world to our beautiful town.

One of the very few local events to still be happening despite the lockdown is Pub in the Park, which takes place in St Nicholas Park this weekend. Thanks to the diligent work of our Events and Business Support Team this popular event can take place in a Covid safe environment. If you’re planning to attend, please remember to wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering and make space, while having a really great time.

And finally, for this Sunday 4 July #ThankYouDay our social media accounts will be sharing our thanks to all the local heroes who have kept us going throughout the pandemic. 

Keep smiling and stay safe.

Cllr Andrew Day
Leader, Warwick District Council

Chris Elliott
Chief Executive, Warwick District Council