"JUST hold on that little bit longer - we're very nearly there."

That's the message from BCP Council as it prepares to welcome visitors for staycations this summer.

The council has warned people the "stay local" message remains over Easter and urged them to look forward to trips after May 17.

Chris Saunders, BCP Council’s Service Director Destination & Culture said: "We’ve already launched our summer readiness plans so that we’re ready to welcome people back.

"When it’s safe to do so and government guidance allows we know people will come to our area and that’s a good thing. We’re a holiday destination and we’re proud of that. The staycation market is set to boom and we want to make sure we get a slice of that action.

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"In the run up to Easter people will need to remember that the government guidance is to stay local. By government stipulation non-essential shops, restaurants and bars will still be closed, with very limited takeaway outlets open.

"Our biggest message to visitors is that if they really want to get the best of our towns then get your holiday booked from May 17 onwards – just hold on that little bit longer, we’re very nearly there."

BCP Council has set aside £3.5 million to make sure the resort is prepared for when visitors are able to return.

Launched this week, a multi-agency command control centre (MACC) will be in operation until the end of September and will oversee the seasonal plan’s day and evening operations, responding in real time to issues that arise when the resort experiences an increase in visitor numbers.

An additional 75 seafront staff have been recruited to welcome people, keep the beaches clean and safe, and provide a greater security presence.

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There will also be increased traffic management, tow away zones, a park-and-ride facility, increased refuse collections and longer opening hours for toilets.

Around 30 electric BBQs will be installed along the seafront to reduce the use of disposable ones, and a 24 hour beach patrol operation will be in place to deal with incidents of overnight camping and bonfires.

Developments to the BCP BeachCheck app will include car parks so people can check how busy the beaches and car parks are before they arrive.

Extra security patrols, Covid marshals and additional CSAS officers will be deployed on the ground in hot spot areas to provide a uniformed presence and deal with anti-social behaviour and Covid regulations.

Mr Saunders urged those who are still determined to come to the area this Easter to book self-catering accommodation.

In February the council launched a £1million readiness package ahead of the government’s roadmap being announced. The council has now set aside a further £2.5million via additional government grants to fund the enhanced plan.