Released guidance over the last week, Boris Johnson’s statement on Sunday, and with more information in a report to be released today (11.5.2020) there are clear indications that the Government is trying to relax the lockdown (in England). The rules of social distancing are now very clear and being applied in many work place and public settings. Of these the rules on exercise and access to the countryside and coast offer a significant break with the lockdown. For example the anglers are interpreting this as a green light to resume their sport, and it covers other water sports. Given the benefits of open space to our health and well-being (reported below) if people are careful this could be real benefit to many people. A very great deal to take in.

Spending time in the garden and in the natural environment is good for health and wellbeing (Natural England)

Since 2009, Natural England in partnership with Defra, has undertaken the Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment (MENE) survey. The main focus of the survey is capturing time spent in the natural environment. It also seeks to capture other ways of engaging with the natural environment such as time spent in the garden and volunteering, and pro-environmental behaviours such as recycling.

The Angling Trust has given a warm welcome to the announcement today (May 10th) by Prime Minster Boris Johnson that recreational fishing looks set to resume in England on Wednesday, May 13th. The Prime Minister announced the resumption of ‘unlimited outdoor sports’ from Wednesday providing they are conducted alone or with members of the same household and that social distancing rules are followed at all times.

£2 billion package to create new era for cycling and walking

Alternative ways to travel, such as walking and cycling, could relieve the pressure on public transport.

Defra urge Councils to re-open recycling centres .. to help avoid fly tipping

Yesterday Defra published new guidance for local authorities on how they can safely re-open Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) during the coronavirus outbreak.