Easing of lockdown welcomed by county council leader
Posted on Tuesday 23rd June 2020
The easing of lockdown restrictions to support more businesses and venues to reopen have been welcomed by the leader of Staffordshire County Council.
In a speech to the Commons today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined changes to lockdown rules from 4 July.
Reacting to the speech, Leader Philip Atkins said:
“Making sure people’s health is protected as we get our economy back on its feet is a difficult balancing act, but the measures announced today will go some way to helping the leisure and tourism industry in Staffordshire, whilst still keeping people safe.
“The hospitality sector in Staffordshire employs tens of thousands of people, and generates £1.8 billion each year locally. With these new rules and a firm opening date in place, businesses now have enough time to adapt to the new working guidelines.
“We’re here to support businesses as much as possible as they get back up and running, and will continue with our plans to attract investment and grow our economy for the benefit of Staffordshire families and businesses.”
The new measures include:
- People should still stay 2 metres apart if they can, but this can be reduced to least 1 metre apart as long as there are mitigations in place.
- Two households will be able to meet inside, in any setting.
- Pubs and restaurants will be re-opened, but limited to table service.
- People will also be able to stay in hotels and on camping and caravan sites.
- Hairdressers will also be able to reopen, so long as there are precautions in place
Philip added:
“The easing of restrictions is also great news for families, especially when coupled with yesterday’s announcement about relaxing the guidance on shielding, as it means they can spend more time together. As the Prime Minister said, COVID-19 has not gone away, so it is important people keep following the guidelines and keep themselves and everyone around them safe.”