14 May: Coronavirus (COVID-19) update from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

There has been a slight increase in the number of COVID-19 cases across the Borough.

There were 62 new cases in the Borough during the week ending May 9, a rate of 31.4 per 100,000 population, compared with 44 new cases the previous week.

Although it's encouraging that case numbers remain low, it's certainly not over and it's important that we keep protecting each other. We must all follow the Our People to reduce the spread of the virus as we move into Step 3 of the National roadmap on Monday (May 17).

There will be a number of changes to Council services from Monday too.

Libraries

The following libraries will reopen to the public on Monday:

• Fairfield Library
• Roseworth Library
• Thornaby Library (Gilmour Street)

Monday to Friday opening hours will be 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm). The libraries will be open for click and collect only from 2pm to 4pm.

Customers will be able to return books, browse for 20 minutes, and have 45 minutes of pre-booked ICT access (except at Fairfield and Roseworth libraries).

Book reservations, click and collect, photocopying, printing and laminating services will also be available.

Customer Service points

The Customer Service points in the three main town centre libraries in Billingham, Stockton and Thornaby will re-open for pre-arranged appointments. Appointments can be made by contacting the Customer Services telephone line 01642 393939.

Collection of pre-ordered recycling and green waste bags will be also be available in Stockton, Billingham and Thornaby Central Libraries. Orders can be made by calling 01642 391959.

Wedding and civil partnership ceremonies

The number of people able to attend weddings and civil partnership ceremonies will increase from Monday:

• The Register Office: Four attendees. This includes the two people getting married and two witnesses.
• The Nightingale Suite: 14 attendees. This includes the two people getting married and up to 12 guests.
• Other approved premises: 30 attendees. This includes the two people getting married and up to 28 guests.

Cremations and burials

From Monday up to 42 people can attend a ceremony at Maplewood Chapel, Stockton-on-Tees Crematorium.

The Borough's cemeteries will be fully open to the public.

Preston Park Museum and Grounds

Preston Park Museum, Victorian Street and Gardens will reopen from Tuesday, 18 May at restricted capacity.

Visitors are strongly recommended to pre-book tickets to guarantee entry.

Tickets will be available to book online. For further details visit Preston Park Museum and Grounds website.

Keep informed

Remember, you can keep up with all Coronavirus (COVID-19) related developments in the Borough, including details of the help and support available, via our webpage at Our People.