ESSENTIAL services in Warrington such as waste collection and highway maintenance will carry on as normal, says Warrington Borough Council.

The council is reassuring residents that they will be doing everything possible to continue the delivery of these services during the coronavirus pandemic.

Full waste collection is still running for all residents.

Warrington Community Recycling Centres, in Gatewarth, Woolston and Stockton Heath, also remain open but should only be used if absolutely necessary.

Council staff will also continue to carry out essential street scene services, including the maintenance of grass verges near highways and sports pitches to stop them falling into a degraded state.

Warrington Borough Council leader, Cllr Russ Bowden, said: "We know how important our essential services such as waste collection and highways maintenance are to people.

"I want to assure everyone that we are doing all we can to maintain these services and keep them running as smoothly as possible during this difficult time.

"Due to a larger number of people remaining at home, there will be more cars parked in residential areas.

"Please help us by making every effort to ensure access to our waste collection vehicles is not blocked so we can continue to collect all waste.

"We will continue to update you on our efforts to protect our most essential services along with our work to maintain critical social care and public health services for our most vulnerable people."

The council’s bereavement services are operating normally, as well as pest control and cleaning of key buildings.

Parks and open spaces are open to support appropriate exercise, with residents urged not to gather in groups larger than two and maintain social distancing.

In line with government advice, all bowling greens, play areas and outdoor gyms in Warrington are now closed to the public.