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Trafford Council has suspended green bin collections and closed its playgrounds over the COVID-19 outbreak - and is reviewing whether or not it will need to close parks too.

As thousands thronged to beauty spots, parks and national reserves over the weekend, Trafford Council is pleading with its residents to adhere to social distancing rules as the spread of coronavirus accelerates.

The authority is now reviewing how some services run in the borough in order to keep both its residents and staff safe.

From today (Monday March 23), grey bins will continue to be collected as normal, but the collection of green garden waste will be suspended.

Residents should put any food waste that would normally go into their green bins into their grey bins until further notice.

The council also announced it would be closing playgrounds but would be keeping the area's parks open for the time being.

But a spokesperson added: "To help reduce the spread of the virus it’s vital that everyone observes latest government advice and keeps their distance from others at all times, two metres.

"If this doesn’t happen then we will look again about whether to keep parks open."

The council also said it will not be enforcing permit parking restrictions on residential streets "to help those who are normally out and about between 9am and 5pm but are now being forced to change their routine because of the pandemic."

All of the council's libraries will also close with immediate effect for the safety of staff and customers.

Residents can still access e-books, e-audio books, e-magazines and e-newspapers by visiting www.trafford.gov.uk/libraries. Any queries should be directed to 0161 912 3189.

Coun Andrew Western, council leader, said: “These are very challenging times for us and council colleagues are working extremely hard to make sure we can continue to deliver the essential services people in the borough rely on.

"We can all do our bit as well and listen to the government advice which is stay at home if possible.

"Please heed advice around social distancing guidelines as well. This guidance is for a reason – to help slow down the spread of the infection to ease the burden on our NHS.

"The images from the weekend show the message hasn’t landed with some people. We are having to give real consideration to the closure of parks and towpaths today because of the sheer volume of people and due to large groups congregating, so please be sensible everyone.”

Posted: 2020-03-23 14:54:59