Earlier this week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that Step 2 of the roadmap to easing lockdown will continue on April 12th as predicted.
Following this announcement, various businesses were given the green-light to open their doors.
Social distancing remains in place, and the rule of six or two households meeting outdoors will continue, but what will reopen from April 12th?
All retail
It has been a devastating year of closures for many retail businesses, and the town centre is certainly going to look different this year, particularly following the loss of Debenhams, Topshop, Topman, Clarkes and many more.
However, Monday will see the first step to a return to normal life as shops prepare to reopen.
We’re pleased to confirm that Swindon Designer Outlet will be open again from Monday 12 April and we can’t wait to…
Posted by Swindon Designer Outlet on Tuesday, 6 April 2021
Outdoor hospitality
Outdoor hospitality, including beer gardens have been given the green-light to reopen.
WE ARE OPENING SOON….🙏
Keep a close eye on our socials for up to date info on our re-opening plan!
Bookings are…
Posted by Swindon Rendezvous on Friday, 2 April 2021
Any premises with an outdoor space can serve customers and if not.
Barbers, Hairdressers and Beauty Salons
No more lockdown haircuts – hairdressers are coming back.
Most beauty services will now be able to operate and owners of salons who have been out of work for most of the last 12 months are now able to return to their beauty rooms.
Outdoor attractions
Many people, particularly parents who are looking for activities to fill up their weekends, will be very happy to hear that outdoor attractions can reopen from Monday.
Zoos theme parks and drive-in cinemas are allowed to open; Daisy Dukes drive-in event is currently planned at the Abbey Stadium for May 21st-23rd.
Libraries and community centres
Check in with your local library or community centre and stay up to date with their reopening news and plans.
Indoor leisure – including gyms!
Gyms were closed prior to the third national lockdown due to the high Covid-19 rates through December; but they will now be able to welcome customers back in.
If you haven’t attended a gym since before they closed during the first lockdown, check their rules prior to your visit.
Indoor parent and child groups
This is limited to 15 people (excluding under 5s) but has been required by many parents since lockdown began.
Domestic overnight stays
Accommodation will be able to open but only for people living in the same household, the same rules apply for self-contained accommodation.
Funerals and weddings
There is still a limit, but this has now increased to 15; there can be 30 people at a funeral, but weddings, wakes and receptions will be limited to 15 people only.
