Directory

Access tools

Set Text size

A

|

A

|

A

Set Contrast

A

|

A

|

A

Text only
Translation
Listen

News

NATIONAL FUEL SHORTAGE

Contingency plans have been put in place by the Borough of Poole to ensure that essential services will keep running during the national fuel shortage situation.

To ensure the best use of the Council’s current diesel stocks, which under normal use would last for 7-10 days, contingency plans have been put in place including:

· a priority on emergency work, care for the vulnerable and public health and safety
· issuing advice to Head Teachers and school Governing Bodies to ensure plans for travel arrangements such as car sharing and alternative forms of transport have been made
· a review of all non-essential work such as grounds maintenance

Care for elderly or vulnerable people in their own homes is currently delivered by independent providers and the Council’s in-house Home Care team using private cars. Due to the shortage of petrol, a pool of diesel cars has been set up to ensure services are maintained.

Cllr Brian Clements, Leader of the Council, said: "Our priority at the moment is to make sure that those who are elderly or vulnerable continue to receive the care they need. At the same time I would ask the public to be good neighbours and if you know of anyone locally who might be experiencing problems, please check with them to make sure they are comfortable and have everything they need.

As well as looking at our own use of fuel, we are asking people to think twice before using their cars and only to use them if absolutely necessary. Where possible use alternative forms of transport, such as walking, cycling or public transport. Whilst there are no plans to stop services such as refuse collection at the moment, we will be reviewing the situation on a daily basis and will keep people informed. In the meantime we would ask everyone to be patient and hope that the situation will be resolved quickly."

Anyone concerned about a neighbour can contact Social Services on tel: (01202) 633868/633869/633870/633890 during office hours or out of hours on tel: (01202) 668123.

-ends-

Michelle Holland, Public Relations, tel: (01202) 633295