DESPITE the relaxation of coronavirus social distancing guidelines and today's announcement that pubs, clubs and restaurants will soon be able to open, it may be some time yet before local community hubs and libraries in Thurrock are open.

Thurrock Council says it has no immediate plans to reopen its local centres, saying: "Libraries and hubs in Thurrock remain closed while a phased approach to reopen is prepared in line with government guidelines and today's announcement.

"The safety of staff and customers is vital, and all libraries and hubs will be risk assessed before any reopen to allow customers and staff to maintain social distancing and stay safe.

"During this period, the council encourages residents to continue taking advantage of various library online and digital reading services which include BorrowBox for e-books and e-audio; and RBdigital and PressReader for accessing newspapers and magazines online. All these services are available via this link. More information on the reopening will be provided in the coming days as plans are finalised."