High Peak MP speaks out over Peak District ‘local lockdown’ rumours

The Telegraph reported on Monday there was ‘speculation’ that the Peak District tourist season could be delayed after confirmed new Covid-19 cases rose from two to nine between June 19 and June 26.

A report by the national newspaper stated that ‘the Peak District could see its hotels, pubs and restaurants remain closed until further notice’.

The news emerged as Derbyshire was named one of 36 areas in England experiencing spikes in coronavirus cases.

Parliament is currently in discussions over ‘local lockdowns’ to target locations where the disease appears to be most prevalent.

In Leicester - which Health Secretary Matt Hancock said had ‘10 per cent of all positive cases in the country over the past week - non-essential shops have shut, and schools will close for most pupils on Thursday.

Following the report in the Telegraph MP Robert Largan said he had contacted ministers to get an ‘accurate reflection’ of what’s happening’.

However he added ‘what we have to keep in mind is the numbers being talked about (in the High Peak) are minor.’

He said: “It’s scary that there’s an increase but we have to keep this in perspective - we're talking about fluctuations which don’t pose much of a threat.

“We have to start reopening the economy as well - the number of jobs that will be lost if lockdown carries on will leave lots of people in deprivation.”

Councillor Anthony McKeown, Leader of High Peak Borough Council said: “Any increase in confirmed cases is, of course, of concern and we will continue to work closely with our partners to keep this situation under review.

“At present, there are no plans for specific measures in High Peak.

“The virus has not gone away and we all need to remain vigilant to contain it and keep ourselves, our families and friends and our colleagues safe.

“Safety measures are in place and the guidance is clear – we need to continue to keep the required distance apart from others, clean our hands regularly and abide by the advice and any safety measures put in place at any locations we visit.”

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