The mayor of Helston has urged people to "consider the safety of the wider community" as the town prepares to close one of its main shopping streets to traffic for three weeks.

Mayor John Martin also urged people to support local shops, to help businesses recover after enforced closures during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Martin explained that for the safety of pedestrians and shoppers, a temporary Cornwall Council emergency traffic order would be in force in Meneage Street, initially for three weeks, closing it to traffic from Monday, June 22 until Sunday, July 12 in the first instance.

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He said: "This is to address a public health emergency and its aim is to enable people to socially distance whilst remaining safe from traffic. The order will be reviewed on a regular basis as Government guidelines change and feedback is digested.

"I want to thank everyone in and around Helston for the efforts you have made during these unprecedented times. The public spirit shown by our community has ensured that those most in need have been able to receive help.

"As we look to Helston reopening for business, safety of pedestrians and shoppers is of paramount concern."

Mr Martin said that while safety was his prime concern, he was also aware that businesses had "taken a huge hit" over the past few months, quoting that in April the British economy shrank by more than 20 per cent, compared to a drop of 1 per cent in September 2008, at the peak of the financial crisis.

"It is therefore vital that as much assistance as possible is given to businesses in the town. Closure of Meneage Street is a start and to give people the confidence to support businesses, we are looking at measures across the rest of the town centre, with advice and guidance from Cornwall Council.

"To play your part, I ask that when considering where and how you shop, “Think Local, Shop Local”. With our support, local businesses will be better placed to recover.

"I recognise that these changes will mean disruption for some and ask that you work with me to adapt and overcome any issues," he added.

To compensate for the loss of on-street parking, the town council is working with Cornwall Council to provide the first two hours of customer parking free in Trengrouse Way car park.

Mr Martin said he was also considering the issues around resident and disabled access.

"There will, no doubt, be many other issues to address which, through co-operation and consideration, we will overcome.

"Now is not the time for individuals to think of themselves but to consider the safety of the wider community. So, if you have something to contribute, please get in touch," he added.

He thanked those residents and businesses that had already given feedback on such changes and said: "As bad news normally travels faster than good, I am encouraged that so many responses have been positive."

Emails with concerns, ideas and thoughts can be sent to enquiries@helston-tc.gov.uk, starting the email title with 'Covid19'.

People can call into the Corn Exchange in the Guildhall between 12 noon and 2pm each day this Monday to Friday, to meet with some of the town council and hear more about the plans, under social distancing. There will also be a drop-in session between 6pm and 8pm on Tuesday evening, for those unavailable during the day.

Town council staff and volunteers will also be overseeing the road closure, in a bid to make the changes as smooth as possible.

"For their part, all businesses are also required to carry out a coronavirus risk assessment before reopening, ensuring the safety of customers and staff," said Mr Martin.

"My strategic vision is to make the town centre safe for all, an attractive place to spend time, to enjoy our historic streets, buildings and to meet our wonderful towns folk.

"It will be hard work, but my fellow councillors and I are determined to make this work."