Cllr Vince Maple today met with the Leader of Medway Council to discuss Medway’s response to the CVOID19 pandemic.

Cllr Vince Maple, Leader of Medway Labour & Co-operative Group said, ‘I was pleased today to have a very productive meeting with the Leader of Medway Council.

‘Now truly is the time for collective action and cross-party working, which is why myself and Cllr Jarrett today agreed to form a cross-party group with the sole aim of tackling issues around the COVID-19 pandemic in Medway.

‘Medway Council is absolutely right to take decisive action on cancelling events up to the end of June in order to minimise the spread of the virus.

‘I’ve been reassured that there will be leniency at this time for those who are struggling to pay their council tax.

‘I was pleased that my suggestion to extend the pre 9am bus availability for bus pass holders has been acted upon. This will help to support our older and vulnerable residents, who are now more able to visit many of the shops that are opening early specifically for their use. It is however important that this is effectively communicated to the residents concerned.  I would urge residents to use their networks to ensure this message is shared widely.”

‘We will hear more from the council soon about supporting small businesses, and more options to help residents financially are currently being explored.

‘I am still anxious to address other extremely pressing issues, such as setting up a hardship fund as other councils have done, and urge residents to get in touch with me about their concerns around how we tackle COVID-19 in Medway.’