CHANGES have been made to a number of services in Southampton amid the Covid-19 outbreak.

Southampton City Council confirmed that permit parking restrictions will not be enforced in resident parking zones one to 20, 22 and 23 until April 30 when the decision will be reviewed. Permit parking restrictions will also be temporarily lifted in Hollybrook Cemetery to facilitate parking for additional NHS resources.

The council said this only applies to the marked bays within the cemetery and vehicles should not be left on the “No Waiting” restrictions within the cemetery as that space will be required for cemetery operations such as funerals.

The authority said it recognises "this will create a visual impact within the cemetery but feels that this is outweighed by the need to assist NHS employees".

The Itchen Bridge toll has temporarily been lifted and marriage and civil partnership ceremonies have been postponed.

The authority also confirmed that school crossing patrols and non-urgent housing repairs will cease while emergency repair services will be maintained. The number of mourners allowed at the Crematorium has been reduced and ceremonies will only take place in East Chapel. Webcasts are now available for cremation services free of charge.

The city council has also confirmed the closures of a number of public places including all council-run libraries, community centres and cultural venues, play parks, public toilets and takeaway services that were running in park cafes as well as the cash office and gateway on Guildhall Square. The Millbrook recycling centre is also closed and the civic centre has been closed to the public. Meanwhile civic chiefs said there are no disruptions to bin collections but warned residents that extra capacity requests for bins cannot be accepted at the moment.

The authority is also looking to employ 20 new people to work in the care sector. It said the opportunity is for people new to the care industry and the role could involve tasks such as preparing meals and ensuring medication is provided accurately and on time. Face-to-face stop smoking consultations have been put on hold. Council leader Christopher Hammond said: "We all need to do everything we can to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Which is why we’re supporting the government decision to restrict movement and social interaction by closing our buildings and stopping non-essential services. Rest assured our essential public services will continue. and our priority remains looking after the most vulnerable. I’d urge all our residents to adhere to the lockdown and follow Government’s advice. Southampton has faced many challenges in the past. But we’ve always come out the other side stronger by working together and looking out for each other. This time will be no different.”