Hundreds of places across Staffordshire and Cheshire released from covid restrictions
Today England moves into Step Two of the Government’s roadmap
It's a big day for hundreds of businesses and services across Staffordshire and Cheshire - as many finally get to reopen after three long months.
From today (Monday 12th April), non-essential retail, hairdressers, and gyms along with pubs and other hospitality venues operating an outdoor table service only will be released from coronavirus restrictions. Libraries and community centres will also be reopening.
Council-owned country parks are already open for recreation or exercise with Government rules limiting outdoor meetings to six people or two households. In addition to this, some of the areas most popular beautiful spots can resume operations; Cannock Chase Visitor Centre will reopen from today, and Chasewater Visitor Centre will reopen next Monday 19th April.
Director for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, Dr. Richard Harling, said: “It’s great that many businesses across Staffordshire can now reopen after what has been an extremely tough and uncertain time for them. I’m urging residents to do everything they can to minimise the spread of coronavirus and avoid restrictions being imposed again.
“The best way to do this is by continuing to follow the rules and making sure you’re getting tested regularly, at least twice a week. Take extra care and remember Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air when visiting shops or meeting people you do not live with in beer gardens and other legally permitted settings.
Easing of restrictions also means that all childcare and supervised activities are now allowed indoors and care home residents can nominate two named individuals for regular indoor visits.
Children’s Centres will be open for childcare and medical appointments and will now begin the phased reintroduction of Early Years activities for 0-to-fives, which had been paused.
Some small outdoor events can take place, and up to 15 guests will be allowed to attend weddings, civil partnership ceremonies and other commemorative events in eligible indoor venues. Wedding receptions can also take place for up to 15 guests outdoors, but this does not include private gardens.
Richard added: “Staffordshire residents have played their part tremendously throughout the pandemic and particularly during the last few months. It’s crucial that we don’t give up now and stick to the guidance to ensure the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown can continue as planned.”
Meanwhile, Cheshire Police is urging residents to follow the new restrictions "to the letter" today, as the Constabulary begin a new phase of policing them.
Officers will be engaging with residents while assisting local businesses and partners to ensure public safety is the priority as these venues reopen.
Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said: “The Prime Minister confirmed that the roadmap out of restrictions is on track and this is certainly the positive news we all need.
“However, now that we are successfully moving into Step Two, we must continue to stick to the rules in place in order to keep the rate of coronavirus infections down.
“This means that when you do go to visit outdoor hospitality venues, you need to follow the measures in place to protect not only yourself, but your loved ones.
“Our officers will continue to engage and explain the new regulations while assisting local councils and licensing teams to ensure the move into Step Two is done safely.”
Also part of Step Two of the roadmap, overnight stays away from home in England are permitted and self-contained accommodation opens as long as residents visit with members of the same household or support bubble.
Outdoor attractions such as zoos, theme parks, drive-in cinemas and drive-in performances will also be opening their doors.
ACC Sims added: “There is no longer the need to stay at home or stay local but I would urge people to remember that coronavirus is still a real threat in this country.
“The Constabulary will continue its work in supporting local communities as we have done throughout the pandemic, but when officers are met with blatant and repeat breaches of the restrictions they will enforce in order to protect the public.”
For more information on the coronavirus measures visit https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus