Britain has been under lockdown since March. But in recent weeks, some aspects of the coronavirus lockdown have started to ease. In England, more measures will be eased from Monday, July 13, as the country steps further towards the new normal. But what exactly is permitted to open from tomorrow?
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden announced on Wednesday, July 9, several more businesses will be able to reopen some services.
From July 11, members of the public in England were permitted to begin participating in team and other grassroots sports where the sports governing body has issued guidance about how to do it safely.
Outdoor swimming pools and outdoor water parks were also allowed to reopen.
Outdoor performances in front of a live audience and indoor rehearsals are also able take place in COVID-19 secure venues.
Indoor rehearsals and indoor performances for broadcast can only happen where no audience is present.
Smaller-scale indoor performances can be piloted in COVID-19 Secure venues once approved by the government.
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Furthermore, the businesses should increase the frequency of handwashing and surface cleaning, as well as regularly cleaning equipment or using disposable equipment where possible.
Avoiding skin to skin contact and wearing gloves where it is not crucial to the service is advised.
The businesses must also maintain sufficient spacing between customer chairs.
Not allowing food or drink, other than water, to be consumed in the salon by customers is also included in the Government guidance.
Businesses are also told to make sure a limited and fixed number of workers work together if they have to be in close proximity to do their jobs.
What else does the Government plan to open across England in the coming weeks?
From July 25 the following businesses can open:
- Sports facilities and venues, including such as indoor gyms, fitness and dance studios
- Indoor swimming pools
- Indoor water parks.
The following businesses remain closed in England: nightclubs, bowling alleys, indoor skating rinks, indoor play areas and conference centres.
What restrictions are being lifted elsewhere across the UK?
In Wales, hotels, pubs and restaurants can open outdoors from July 13.
Holiday accommodation can reopen in Scotland from July 15, whereas in Wales self-contained accommodation can reopen on July 11.
Campsites can reopen in Wales on July 25.
Hairdressers can also reopen in Northern Ireland from July 13 and in Scotland from July 15.