Service disruption inevitable, warns Moray Council's Chief Executive

FURTHER disruption to council services is ‘inevitable’ in the coming weeks, says Moray Council’s Chief Executive, Roddy Burns.

It comes after the council has confirmed partial operational closure of Elgin and Buckie high schools, and the cancellation of Active Schools sessions and library events.

Plans have been drawn up to prioritise essential council services, though Roddy Burns said residents will see a difference in the delivery of local services.

“We have been working for weeks to draw up business continuity plans, to make sure we can continue to provide the most-needed services to our residents during this crisis while doing all we can to protect our colleagues who deliver them

“Disruption will be inevitable and I ask all residents to be patient as we work through the coming weeks and months together. We continue to work closely with the Scottish Government and NHS, and will base our decisions on the advice we receive from them.

“This is a fast-moving situation and we will work hard to keep everyone up-to-date as it progresses. “Any service disruption will be posted on the council’s website (www.moray.gov.uk/covid19), our social media channels and our knowledgeable contact centre staff will be available to take calls for those who don’t have online access.

“I urge all residents to follow health advice to look after themselves and their families.”

The business of the council and decisions required for continuity will be undertaken by a reduced cross-party emergency committee of councillors. An incident management team comprising senior managers from across the council are meeting daily to ensure essential services are delivered and staff supported.

Information on any changes to Scottish Government and NHS advice can be found at www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus