Local MP, Caroline Dinenage, has today welcomed the Prime Ministers announcement that certain lockdown measures will be lifted from July 4th, as the Stay Alert Level has been downgraded from level 4 to level 3.
The Prime Minister made a statement to the Commons, and is holding the Downing Street Press Conference tonight, detailing what businesses can reopen, and new social distancing measures, to kickstart the economy.
From July 4th, social distancing guidance will reduce from 2 metres to 1 metre plus for certain businesses who have appropriate protections in place, although, where possible people should continue to remain 2 metres apart if possible.
This is coupled with the announcement that pubs and restaurants can reopen if they put in place COVID secure safeguards, including reducing table service and staff.
Other businesses that can reopen include hairdressers, outdoor gyms and playgrounds, cinemas, museums, galleries, theme parks, arcades, libraries, social clubs and community centres.
Places of worship, which recently reopened for individual prayer, will be able to hold socially distanced communal services and weddings with a maximum of 30 people.
‘Staycation’ is set to become the buzzword of 2020’s summer as hotels, B&Bs and campsites are open for summer holidays. Certain mitigations remain in place, for example campsites will only be allowed to open if share bathrooms are kept clean at all times.
It is expected that not all sectors will reopen immediately on July 4th as they put in place the proper producers to ensure safeguarding.
Last night, those shielding were informed they can now form their own ‘social bubbles’ and join others in meeting in groups of 6 outside. For those not shielding, two households are also now allowed to meet in any setting as long as they maintain social distancing.
Local MP, Caroline Dinenage, commented:
“This is really welcome news as friends and families can reunite at a distance, and we can begin to kickstart our economy.
“While we are all looking forward to returning to our favourite pub, I urge everyone to stay vigilant and continue to follow the guidance. This is a fantastic opportunity to get back to some form of normality, but only if we continue to contain the spread of Covid-19.
“I know this is welcome news for many, not only businesses, but those who have been missing friends, grandparents and loved ones over this tricky time.”
The Prime Minister remained clear that restrictions will be reinforced if the rate of reproduction and new transmissions rise again and has urged members of the public to continue following safeguarding measures carefully.
Guidance for businesses to reopen will be released later today.