Pubs, restaurants, hotels, and hairdressers in England can reopen from July 4th, British prime minister Boris Johnson confirmed. Most hospitality establishments across the UK have been closed since March 20th due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, with the number of cases gradually decreasing the country, Johnson said it was now safe for reopening.
Social distancing rules will be eased in England
Guests must remain one meter apart at all times. Indoor service in pubs and restaurants will only be allowed to have table service. Venues will be asked to collect contact details of customers. The prime minister warned that all steps were “reversible” is cases begin to increase again.
Some leisure facilities and tourist attractions may also reopen, to gradually restore the arts and cultural sector, if they can do so safely, Johnson said. This includes outdoor gyms and playgrounds, cinemas, museums, galleries, theme parks, and arcades, as well as libraries, social clubs, places of worship, and community centers. However, places that are still considered high-risk must remain closed. “The government is continuing to work with these sectors to establish task forces to help them to become ‘COVID Secure’ and reopen as soon as possible,” Johnson added.
Joss Croft, chief executive of UKinbound, while welcomed the developments, said: “Today’s announcement that pubs, restaurants, hotels, and attractions can officially open on the July 4th will come as a huge relief to businesses across the tourism and hospitality industry, who have earnt very little revenue since the beginning of March. Reducing social distancing from two meters to one will also ensure that many more businesses will be able to viably reopen at the start of next month.”
