Non-essential retail shops can reopen from 15th June

The Prime Minister said in the daily briefing yesterday that outdoor markets and showrooms will be able to start trading again in England from 1st June.

All other non-essential retailers ranging from department stores to small independent businesses can follow suit two weeks later from 15th June. Hairdressers, nail bars, beauty salons and the hospitality sector will remain closed.

Employers will face “spot checks” to make sure they are implementing social distancing, and have been told they must complete a risk assessment after consultation with trade unions and workers.

All shops wanting to reopen will have to follow new guidance, and have been told to consider a number of measures to reassure customers and staff, including:
• Placing a poster in their windows to demonstrate awareness of the guidance
• Storing returned items for 72 hours before putting them back out on the shop floor
• Placing protective coverings on large items touched by the public such as beds or sofas
• Frequently cleaning objects and surfaces that are touched regularly, including self-checkouts, trolleys, coffee machines and betting terminal

More information on the guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Mr Johnson said the loosening of restrictions for non-essential shops is “contingent upon progress” of lowering Covid-19 infection rates and ensuring there will be no second peak.

It will be great to have some of our independent shops in Ross-on-Wye reopen for business. Please support them where you can!