It is fantastic news that the Prime Minister has given the go ahead to the lifting of more restrictions from next Monday (May 17th). However, he did issue a word of warning that we must exercise caution and common sense. Thanks to the collective efforts of people across the country, including in Thirsk and Malton, and our record breaking vaccination programme we are able to move to the third stage of the roadmap.
This means that from next Monday the majority of the indoor and remaining outdoor economy can reopen following the Rule of Six or two households.
This includes:
- Indoor hospitality, with no requirement for a substantial meal to be served
- Remaining outdoor entertainment, such as outdoor theatres and cinemas
- Indoor entertainment, such as museums, cinemas, theatres and children’s play areas
- Remaining accommodation, such as hotels, hostels and B&Bs
- Adult indoor group sports and exercise classes
- Controlled indoor events of up to 1,000 people or 50% of capacity, whichever is lower
- Outdoor events with a capacity of either 50% or 4,000 people, whichever is lower
- All university students will be able to return to in-person teaching and learning from 17 May
- Face coverings will no longer be needed in classrooms or for students in communal areas in secondary schools and colleges.
- Up to 30 people will be able to attend weddings, receptions, and commemorative events
- The number of people able to attend a funeral will be determined by the number that can be safely accommodated in the venue with social distancing in place
- 30 people will be able to attend a support group or parent and child group. The limit will not apply to children under 5
- Spas in England can reopen fully from May 17 this includes saunas and steam rooms
- International travel can begin to safely reopen from 17 May, allowing people to go on foreign holidays to “green list” countries. Further information can be found here: https://www.kevinhollinrake.org.uk/news/limited-summer-holidays-back-17-may
Covid-secure rules remain for the workplace and businesses, such as in shops and hospitality. These can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Twice-weekly home testing will remain to control infection rates. You can book testing facilities here: https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test
