A NUMBER of services have been cut back by Bromsgrove District Council during the coronavirus crisis – so they can concentrate on providing vital ‘front line’ services.

Bulky waste collections have been suspended, as have garden waste collections, although customer accounts are being credited with a future collection for when the service resumes.

With the majority of people being urged to stay at home, the council has also closed all play areas and outdoor equipment in parks and open spaces, and has shut Bromsgrove Market and Bromsgrove Shopmobility as well as all public toilets in Bromsgrove town centre, Sanders Park, Rubery and Alvechurch.

Decisions on whether to carry out building control inspections and planning site visits are being made on a case-by-case basis, while the council base at Parkside is closed, as are all Worcestershire Household Recycling Centres.

Council leader Karen May said: “Once again, in such unprecedented times, Bromsgrove has risen to the challenge and we see independent businesses, large organisations, community groups, friends and neighbours all rallying around to support one another. 

“Not to mention our brilliant NHS and blue light services.

“In the last week, as a Council we have made lots of key decisions, in line with Government guidance, with the safety and well-being of our staff at the forefront of this. 

“Providing front line services, especially to our most vulnerable customers, is imperative and our staff are pulling together and working across teams to ensure these services are delivered.

“While we have had to pare back some services this is so we can continue services like waste collections, Lifeline (community alarm system) and CCTV monitoring.

“In these uncertain times we are also promoting the support that’s available for residents and for small businesses too including small business grants and business rate support. 

“All this can be found on the support button on the council website www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/coronavirus

“I would encourage people to still enjoy our parks and open spaces yet would urge you all to do so line with Government guidance around social distancing and keep two metres apart. 

“While at times it will seem difficult to not see loved ones or enjoy the freedom of the great outdoors, we will come out of this stronger as a district and a nation and I believe with a greater respect for all we perhaps took for granted.

“Until then, please stay safe, stay at home and look after each other.”