Burnley Council leader praises 'cautious' lockdown exit plan

But the leader of Pendle borough has warned it must be backed with cash support for those hit by the pandemic.

Coun. Townsend said: “A cautious approach to unlocking is the right way forward.

“Burnley has learned the hard way with more than 260 deaths and many job losses that unlocking too quickly costs lives and livelihoods.

“Things are moving in the right direction and we have reasons to be optimistic that the worst is now behind us, providing we all follow the rules over the coming weeks.”

Pendle Council leader Coun. Mohammed Iqbal said: “It’s crucial the government learns from their mistakes and ensure they provide communities with adequate support.”

Rossendale Council leader Coun. Alyson Barnes said: “I welcome a clear and cautious approach to coming out of the lockdown.

“Businesses and those who have lost their jobs will need significant added support over the next few months.”