As the relaxation of lockdown heads towards its next stage, many students are wondering ‘when will pubs reopen in Nottingham?’
The hospitality industry has been heavily hit by the coronavirus pandemic and has faced restrictions throughout the past 12 months.
Pubs and restaurants were one of the first elements of society to be closed as the government tried to battle the virus in March last year.
But punters will soon be able to return to pubs – albeit outside only for now – in less than a week’s time.
Speaking in a government press briefing on Monday evening, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that the next stage of lockdown easing – which includes the reopening of outdoor hospitality – could go ahead.
He said: “I want to stress that we see nothing in the present data that makes us think that we will have to deviate from the roadmap.
“But it is by being cautious, by monitoring the data at every stage, and by following the rules that we hope together to make this roadmap to freedom irreversible.”
What reopens in Stage Two of lockdown easing?
The next round of reopenings will see more businesses open, but restrictions on indoor gatherings will continue.
People will still only be allowed to meet in groups of six people, or two households. Visits to indoor locations – such as non-essential shops – should be done alone or with your household group.
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Social distancing should still continue for those meeting with people outside your household or bubble.
From April 12, the following will happen:
- All non-essential retail can reopen
- Hairdressers, beauty salons and other close-contact services
- Restaurants and pubs are allowed to serve food and alcohol but customers must sit outdoors
- Gyms and spas can reopen along with zoos, theme parks, libraries and community centres
- Members of the same household can take a holiday in England in self-contained accommodation
- Up to 15 people can attend weddings
- Up to 30 people can attend funerals. Only 15, however, can go to a wake
- Children will be able to go to indoor children’s activities
- The number of people who can go to a care home will increase to two per resident
- Driving lessons can resume. Driving tests will start again from April 22
The government have said that they will provide universities with at least one week’s notice before asking for the further return of students.
No update, however, was provided in the latest press briefing; official guidance says only students on practical courses should return to campus.
What opens in Stage Three of lockdown easing?
There are still a number of restrictions on life, even when Stage Two comes into force on April 12.
Stage Three, which is planned to happen no earlier than May 17, will allow people to meet outdoors in groups of up to 30.
Six people or two households will be allowed to meet indoors and domestic stays will be allowed with people not in your household or bubble.
Pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues will be allowed to have customers inside; indoor theatres and cinemas can reopen.
Hotels, hostels and B&Bs will reopen and international leisure travel could return.
By Matt Lee
Lead Image: Kieran Burt