Council facilities open but under ‘daily review’

The announcement comes after a number of other local authorities in Northern Ireland moved to close leisure centres and public amenities this week.

Providing an update at time of going to print, an Antrim and Newtownabbey Council spokesperson said: “Council is planning for contingency measures that may be required. The chief executive met with the council’s party group leaders on Monday and they will meet on a daily basis to review the situation.

“Council’s leisure centres are currently open, however due to the uncertainty around covid-19, monthly MORE membership fees will not be charged until further notice.

“All council facilities remain open, and the council’s core events programme is unchanged. We will endeavour to notify those attending third-party events at council facilities if these are not going ahead.”

The Mayor, Alderman John Smyth, urged residents to be calm and listen to the advice of the medical authorities.

He said: “Concern and fears are understandable. However, in times of adversity, it is vital that as a community we are unified in our spirit and response.

“People should heed the Public Health Agency’s advice to reduce the spread of the virus, taking precautions around those more vulnerable groups such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.

“We also need to avoid panic buying. I know retailers are making every effort to keep shelves stocked, but panic buying only heightens fear.”

A range of stores across the borough have started to limit the number of items customers can purchase.