Appeal for people not to flock to seaside towns amid upsurge in visits

THERE have been appeals from police for people not to flock to seaside towns amid an upsurge in visits over the weekend.

The SDLP also called on people to adhere to social distancing regulations when visiting popular tourist destinations such as Portrush and Newcastle.

It comes amid reports last night that police had closed roads around Portrush after large crowds of people descended on the coastal town.

In a post on Twitter earlier yesterday, the PSNI had also appealed for people to not travel to popular beaches or beauty spots as "social distancing may not be achievable where large crowds are gathered".

But last night Colin McGrath, assembly member for South Down, said: "Over this past weekend with slightly improved weather and the bank holiday, attendance at places such as Newcastle, Portrush and Portstewart has surged.

"This has pleased businesses with much needed footfall but concerned locals who are unhappy at the large numbers of people who have travelled to the resorts.

"The rules permit people to visit the towns and the rules permit businesses to re-profile so, for example, cafes and restaurants can become takeaways.

"However, it is critical that people adhere to the social distancing rules to stop the spread of the virus."

Cara Hunter, SDLP assembly member for east Derry, added: "Many local people are worried about the numbers of people and the lax attitude of some to the social distancing rules.

"We want to rebuild our tourism towns and support local businesses but not at the expense of the good work we have all done as a community to suppress this virus.

"I would urge people who travel and visit these towns that they remember the guidelines and stick to the regulations."