‘Northampton town centre is safe but let’s not get complacent’: Councillor Jonathan Nunn on new Covid restrictions

As new Covid-19 restrictions come into place that could affect the local economy, particularly the night-time economy, the leader of Northampton Borough Council is optimistic that the town centre can be enjoyed safely without residents becoming complacent.

From yesterday (September 24), pubs, bars and restaurants have to close their doors by 10pm, which could be a blow for the local economy.

However, speaking at the weekly Northamptonshire Covid-19 response press briefing today (September 25), Councillor Jonathan Nunn said there was still an opportunity for the economy as he reflects on spending per head being good, despite decreased footfall.

Cllr Nunn said: “I am concerned if it would cause any harm to the economy. 8pm is the most popular time to book a table in Northampton. 5pm or 6pm perhaps do not work for a lot of us with work so places may only get one setting of customers, which could be difficult if they are used to turning the table round once or twice.

“This could be a problem or an opportunity. Perhaps it may be an opportunity and we will see a shift. Spending in the town centre is good per head even though the footfall is down.

“6pm is the best time to come and enjoy it and you can be safe. Our economy desperately needs that support.”

Although the economy is important and Councillor Nunn is urging people to support it, he wants to make it clear that this can be done while following guidelines and not getting complacent.

He added: “Our rights to go to work as normal have been stolen from us and so many other things have been stolen from us.

“But we have to allow them to continue to be stolen.

“All the additional precautions we have made locally like not car sharing have to carry on. I’m really sorry and I wish it was different but we just have to stick with them.

“Complacency remains our biggest enemy.

“We still have to stick to the precautions. There is no perfect answer.

“We’re balancing the needs of health and the economy. Let’s see this thing through and let's not give up now.”

Find out what else was said at the weekly press briefing on our live blog.

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