Scotland's tourism and hospitality sector scheduled to re-open in July

There could be light at the end of the tunnel for tourism and hospitality businesses in Scotland – as they may be able to re-open on July 15.

Tourism Secretary Fergus Ewing updated the Scottish Parliament on plans to ease the lockdown in the sector.

He said if progress in suppressing the illness continues then the industry could begin to re-open – with safety measures in place.

Mr Ewing told MSPs the Covid-19 crisis has had a “devastating” impact on businesses, with many calling for further clarity on when they can reopen.

The lockdown restrictions are due to be formally reviewed on June 18 and July 9.

Mr Ewing said he hopes the sector can be given the go-ahead for reopening on the July date, but a few more days will then be needed to allow transport services to prepare.

He said: “As things stand just now, our hope is that we will be able to give the go-ahead to a reopening of the sector at the July 9 review.

“Assuming this does prove possible some time would then be required for interconnected services, such as transport to prepare.

“On that basis, and on the clear understanding with the industry that nothing can be absolutely guaranteed at this stage, and that we may need to change this date if the evidence requires it, we would encourage tourism and hospitality businesses to prepare within appropriate safety guidelines for reopening on July 15.

“For the reasons I've set out this timetable is by necessity both provisional and conditional. But we very much hope it can be met.”

Mr Ewing said he and Finance Secretary Kate Forbes have been in touch with Chancellor Rishi Sunak about extending support for tourism and hospitality businesses.

Conservative MSP Peter Chapman said the tourism industry will be “delighted” to have been given a possible date for reopening.

But he warned visitors could face “huge challenges” getting to destinations, with travel on trains and buses “hugely constrained” by the need for physical distancing.

He said: “Even more worrying is travel to the islands, where ferry capacity will be hopelessly inadequate to allow tourists to travel in decent numbers.

“Can the Cabinet Secretary reassure the industry that people will be able to safely travel to enjoy a holiday in July?”

Mr Ewing said he accepted public transport will “of necessity be constrained because of the requirement to comply with social distancing” but said he will be working with Transport Secretary Michael Matheson to “make the necessary, practical arrangements to do our very best to meet the challenges”.

Labour's Claire Baker said the sector has been “very hard hit” by the pandemic.

She added: “It isn't clear if the proposal is for a blanket reopening or if we can look at a phased opening that would recognise different types of risk with different types of accommodation.”

Ms Baker asked if campsites will be among those allowed to reopen and if hospitality will mean bars, restaurants and cafes can open their doors.

She said: “As a date has now been announced, when can people book with confidence?”

Mr Ewing said guidance will be published next week, providing businesses with “sufficient period for preparations to be made” and allowing them to prepare for social distancing and order in PPE if needed.

Responding to Mr Ewing's announcement, the Scottish Tourism Alliance said it is a “hugely positive milestone”.

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