CAROLINE ANSELL MP: I will seek greater localisation of coronavirus restrictions

Nationally, there is no doubt the possibility of 50,000 new daily infections would put an enormous strain on the NHS and, if coupled with flu, it could be very serious indeed. The restrictions are also the vital counterbalance to keeping children and young people in schools, colleges and universities.

No-one wants to have their freedoms taken away and I do understand the frustration from many but additional support will come and I will make the strongest case for greater localising of restrictions going forward. Eastbourne and East Sussex are low incidence. We want to keep it that way of course but with effective testing, we could live more freely and respond quickly if ever needed.

Whilst new restrictions might be now be in place, it doesn’t reflect our new position.

There are some real positives too; we can treat the virus much better now and there are promising trials taking place that may lead to a vaccine by the early part of next year.

Testing capacity is also now improving and the test and trace app has launched so the new message is: “Protect your loved ones, download the App.” We have weapons in our armoury – the best one being the desire of people in Eastbourne and across the country to do the right thing.

I have been incredibly busy in Eastbourne this last week on a variety of big issues. I spoke with our local ambulance service SECAmb on their contingency planning and sorry to say, the abuse experienced by their staff, and with our Director of Public Health about new local testing capacity and with local partners about the Station Health Centre. I have also spoken with Brighton University about students returning to town and local schools about next year’s exams.

I also had the chance to be briefed this week about exciting plans to improve our railways here in Eastbourne. The South Coast Mainline project could see our town connected to Ashford in Kent and with better services into south London. This would bring opportunities for work, the staycation market and being able to head into northern Europe. It’s in initial stages but there’s a strong team behind it and I will be talking to ministers in the coming weeks... one to watch!

Finally, some really lovely news! The 2,000th baby born at Eastbourne Midwifery Unit came along this week. Ottilie Jaye Tuson has entered the world weighing 6lbs 11oz. Many congratulations to proud parents Emily Lawrence and Matthew Tuson. I have also been told there are no plans to temporarily close the maternity unit again if Covid-19 cases rise. So, here’s to even more babies being born in Eastbourne. New life!

Take care and keep in touch.