Lockdown restrictions ease across Buckinghamshire

Covid-19 restrictions are easing today in Buckinghamshire, allowing pubs and restaurants to serve people outside and non-essential retail to resume.

The changes are part of the second step of the Government's four step plan to ease lockdown.

Non-essential shops can now reopen along with hairdressers, nail salons and gyms.

Claire Randall is the owner at No1 in Wendover:

"We are so excited about having our customers back through our doors, it just feels like such a long time since we've seen anybody. I've been popping in from time to time and it just feels very lonely in there so we can't wait to bring the life back into the shop."

Claire added:

"We've got screens at the counter, a one way system, sanitisers galore and we've even got a custom made traffic light system that sits on the door to tell you if it's safe to come in or not."

Pubs and restaurants will also be allowed to serve customers outdoors, after months of closures, public buildings, such as libraries can reopen, driving lessons are resuming and you can also start to enjoy outdoor attractions and trips away in self contained accommodation.

Indoor only hospitality businesses will remain closed except from takeaway though, Temple Street Wine Bar is Aylesbury is one of those.

David Berry who runs the bar and restaurant says it is difficult for some to see others reopen:

"I can understand why people a bit hacked off that you can go around shops and other businesses but can't go into a public house, restaurant or cafe.

"I am fortunate to have one of my businesses open its outdoor area, and its been great to see that.

"But the government have been very good in terms of their grants and support. It was a difficult start in the beginning but now I give them a fair bit of credit.

"We are looking forward to reopening the Aylesbury site in May and I understand there will be a reticence from some about coming out.

"I think regulars will be itching to get back, but I understand some will be more reserved. It's about being comfortable and being ready."

So far the Government has been able to meet their planned target dates thanks in part to the successful vaccine rollout across the UK.

The coming months will see the lifting of further restrictions up until 21st June when the Government aims to have removed almost all restrictions on social distancing.

What comes next?

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