Returning to work!
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Tuesday, 23rd June that England will soon be easing additional lockdown measures related to the coronavirus pandemic.
Starting Saturday, 4th July, pubs, restaurants and hairdressers will be allowed to reopen as long as they adhere to COVID Secure guidelines. Meanwhile, businesses such as bowling alleys, indoor gyms, nightclubs, swimming pools, soft-play areas and nail salons will be required to remain closed for the time being.
Johnson also announced that starting 4th July, people will be allowed to social distance themselves at a reduced distance. Whereas current guidance is set at a distance of at least 2 metres, the change will allow people to stay ‘1 metre plus’ from each other as long as other precautions are being taken.
In addition to the reopening of some businesses, the easing of lockdown measures will also mean that two households will be allowed to gather together in any setting as long as they abide by social distancing measures.
The government also hopes to begin restoring the arts and cultural sector by allowing some leisure facilities and tourist attractions to reopen, such as outdoor gyms and playgrounds, cinemas, museums, galleries, theme parks, arcades, libraries, social clubs, places of worship and community centres.
Johnson noted in his announcement that, while the COVID-19 infection rate continues to decrease, it is of the utmost importance that the public continue to adhere to government guidelines and restrictions.
The government is continuing to work with industries and sectors not yet allowed to reopen in order to establish appropriate taskforces so that they can become COVID-secure and reopen as soon as possible.