Covid-19; Message from Chief Exectuive of PDNPA

The Town Council has received the following communication fron Sarah Fowler, Chief Executive of the Peak District National Park Authority;

Our Prime Minister last night made it clear we are now facing a national emergency as we tackle the coronavirus outbreak.

He clearly and starkly spelled out what all of us need to do; stay at home, protect the NHS, and save lives. That's why today we have closed all of our National Park Authority offices, ranger hubs and visitor facilities including car parks. I have also asked our staff remain at home, unless undertaking essential safety tasks, in line with strict government guidance.

It is now absolutely critical for our Peak District communities, businesses, farmers and key workers within the National Park that we all take these measures extremely seriously. Which is why as well as us taking action I ask all our partners and many communities also to follow the government's measures to the letter; ensuring that we do not put undue and unnecessary pressure on often limited local services and emergency personnel.

As a chief executive and passionate advocate for all that our national parks stand for, it seemed almost unthinkable that we would arrive at a situation where I have, and must, ask those who do not live in, or work on essential services in, the Peak District to please stay away.

We have weathered many challenges in our almost 70 year history and, when the time is right, we will once again welcome everyone to this place which so many millions of us love and hold dear.

It is so often in these extraordinary circumstances that we learn the importance of nature, beauty and history to our health and sense of wellbeing. That's why I feel so strongly that our individual efforts now to take on this battle against coronavirus are so important – so that we may once again be able to let nature help our personal and collective recovery.

As we enter this period of unprecedented uncertainty, I ask everyone to heed the government's advice and any information provided by the National Park Authority on the ground.

I wish good health to you all and your families.

Sarah Fowler

Chief Executive, Peak District National Park"