May 21, 2020 5.26 pm This story is over 45 months old

“Preparatory work” carried out ahead of coastal car parks reopening

Council leaders are refusing to say when facilities will open

East Lindsey District Council is carrying out “preparatory work” on its car parks ready to open them, however, still hasn’t confirmed if this will be in time for bank holiday.

Photos posted on social media by Skegness residents show yellow footprints marking social distances in the authority’s car parks.

However, ELDC has been reluctant to confirm the opening of its facilities, including public toilets, as it pushes a message that visitors are “not welcome” during the coronavirus pandemic.

Asked to confirm if the markings meant the car parks will be open for bank holiday and if any special measures will be put in place to cope, a spokesman said it was “preparatory work for when we do open them.”

East Lindsey District Council leader Craig Leyland refused to reveal what the council would do over public toilets this bank holiday weekend. Photo: Daniel Jaines

Yesterday, authority leader Councillor Craig Leyland threatened to leave BBC Radio Lincolnshire presenter Sean Dunderdale with “dead air” if he kept pushing over the fate of the areas toilets.

He said: “What we will do will be the right decision for us considering the interest of our residents and the interest of businesses.”

Asked again, he said: “Why don’t you talk to me after the weekend and I will justify whatever decision we’ve made?”

To potential visitors, he said: “We will welcome you another day but not today – it’s too soon.”

Hundreds flocked to the coastal resorts yesterday as media outlets reported 40 minute queues for one disabled toilet.

Residents have taken to social media to make reports of anti-social behaviour including public urination behind buildings and under the pier and an increase in litter at some resorts.