Coronavirus: Schools closed from Friday

As the borough’s fourth case of coronavirus was confirmed, the Government announced all schools will close from Friday and the council said its facilities will be subject to full or partial closures and scheduled events postponed.

Meanwhile, the borough’s Archives and Local Studies facilities, including The Museum of Wigan Life, and the Fire Within exhibition in the Galleries shopping centre are closed.

Key council services and advice at Wigan and Leigh Life Centres including online provision will remain in operation (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am- 2pm) although the library facilities at both locations will be closed. In line with national guidance, libraries across the borough will close to the public but may reopen in the coming weeks to serve alternative purposes determined by local demand.

Customers can renew books and access the free eMagazine service online. No fines will be applied for unreturned books during the closure period.

Events scheduled in the next few weeks, including the unveiling of the Mining Heritage statue at Wigan Town Hall, have been postponed.

Earlier this week the leader of the council, Coun David Molyneux, revealed the authority’s five-point plan which details on prioritising frontline and essential services and providing support for the most vulnerable.

Coun Molyneux said: “We know the people of our borough pride themselves on their community spirit and the response to this current situation reinforces this; residents are already volunteering to help those who need it.

“We can all do our bit to support our communities – whether that is checking in with an elderly neighbour or putting yourself forward as a volunteer – and contributing to our Be Kind movement will have a cumulative impact.

“Although it is disappointing that events will need to be re-scheduled and some venues will not operate as usual, I hope everyone will understand why these measures have been taken as we prioritise certain services.”

The roll-out of the Our Town Cleaner Greener packages – which will see targeted environmental works in district centres - have been postponed to ensure staff are deployed to support frontline services.

Further events scheduled in the next few months will be reviewed at a later date pending updated guidance from central government.

Mayoral engagements have also been suspended and council meetings are under review although steps will be taken to ensure council business continues.

In partnership with the borough’s voluntary sector and community groups, a network of hubs based on The Deal’s service delivery footprints (SDFs) will help co-ordinate support.

Coun Molyneux added: “We are a borough that pulls together when required, I have no doubt that we will all rise to the challenge.”