Southampton City Council has tonight (10/9/20) announced that the city’s Boat Shows, due to open tomorrow, have been cancelled. Both shows were due to run from tomorrow until September 20. Southampton City Council issued the following statement:
“The Ocean Village Boat Show 2020 and Boats 2020 presented by Southampton International Boat Show Limited, due to take place in Southampton in September, have been cancelled.
Anyone who was planning to make the journey to one of the boat shows in Southampton should not now make that journey.
Debbie Chase, Director of Public Health, Southampton City Council, said: “Due to the increased spread of COVID-19 nationally, and the need for stronger control measures to reduce transmission both in Southampton and across the country, we unfortunately cannot allow the Ocean Village Boat Show 2020 and Boats 2020 presented by Southampton International Boat Show Limited to take place this month. We have therefore issued a Direction under Regulation 5(1) of the Health Protection Regulations 2020 prohibiting these events from taking place.
“In Southampton and the South East, we have seen a lower rate of COVID-19 transmissions since lockdown ended. However, the national picture shows a concerning rise in cases, and with these events set to attract around 20,000 people from different parts of the UK over a 10-day period, it’s important we act now to reduce the risk of infection.
“The people of Southampton have been doing a fantastic job of supporting their city through social distancing, regular handwashing and isolating if they start showing coronavirus symptoms. The event organisers have also worked incredibly hard to risk assess their activities and implement a range of safety measures. So, I’m very sorry to disappoint them and everyone who was looking forward to attending these events.
“The decision, while regrettable, has been made after detailed analysis of the public health risks and discussions with our colleagues in the city, including the police. COVID-19 is still very much with us and we all need to stay alert, particularly at this sensitive time. Anyone who was planning to make the journey to one of the boat shows in Southampton should not now make that journey. Officers from Southampton City Council and Hampshire Constabulary will be visible in the area to engage with the public and help explain the Direction that has been issued.”