Anglesey’s Executive yesterday (Monday, July 13th) agreed its themes for recovery as the Coronavirus lockdown continues to ease.
The Coronavirus outbreak emergency response over the last four months has been intense and extensive - impacting on Anglesey’s residents, communities and the local economy as well as services provided by the County Council and others.
Recovery planning efforts are currently being developed in tandem with the ongoing response at both regional and local levels; with the Isle of Anglesey County Council duty bound to lead the Island’s recovery.
Executive members heard that the recovery phase would focus on three key themes, namely:
- Health and care
- Enabling the local economy to develop and
- Ensuring community resilience
Deputy Chief Executive, Dylan Williams, explained, “We’re committed to planning for the recovery phase and will continue to work positively with our partners in the local community, as well as regionally, and with the Welsh Government to ensure residents see the benefits as quickly as possible.”
“The enormity and complexity of the recovery phase should not be underestimated. It will be made even more challenging by the uncertainty, and risk that the number of coronavirus cases could surge again.”
“However, if the number of new coronavirus cases is controlled, as we hope, then the country will adapt further and we’ll move into the recovery phase.”
The County Council estimates that the Coronavirus crisis has already led to nearly £1.4m in additional costs as well as £1.2m in lost income.
Resources and funding will therefore be critical as recovery progresses and officers agreed to bring a detailed report before the Executive next month.
Council Leader, Councillor Llinos Medi, and several of her fellow Executive members, highlighted the excellent working relationships developed with Menter Môn and Medrwn Môn during the response efforts.
Cllr Medi said, “Maintaining these close ties, bolstered by the support of local community delivery and strong volunteer networks already in place, will again be key during the recovery period.
“Yesterday, the Executive agreed the themes which will provide the building blocks for recovery period which will, of course, bring changes, challenges and opportunities. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be working to ensure that we develop these key themes to create a robust recovery for Anglesey, its communities and residents.”
She added, “At the moment, the Council’s focus and priority will remain firmly on the emergency response and safely easing restrictions.”
Ends 14.7.20