A return to lockdown in Somerset seemed unlikely in recent weeks and has come as a shock to many. Whilst the R rate has been increasing in our area, the South West appeared much more stable than other parts of England. Until last weekend, Visit Somerset had been promoting our facilities to potential visitors who were not restricted to travel, in the hope that all aspects of the visitor economy could at least facilitate some income streams before the turn of the year.
It is a disappointment to us all, whilst we realise the importance of controlling the virus and working together to protect all aspects of our health service.
The adrenalin of recent weeks has been stifled in place of more worry and inertia for many businesses. Planning, control, budgeting, operations – all the core aspects of business operation are in suspense.
Visit Somerset will continue to be on-hand to consult and guide in any way we can. We all need to achieve something, even if at first glance there is nothing possible or tangible to work on.
In the short term, we can implement our own behaviour, and hopefully influence others. We need to truncate the lockdown on December 2nd, rather than have it extended. We need to demonstrate that Somerset and the South West can safely return to the tier system. Our continued and responsible following of guidance and laws will hopefully mean that we can show that health and economy can be strong partners on the journey into 2021.
John Turner, CEO
07825 372850
Giles Adams, Chair
07952 896995