As pubs, bars and restaurants prepare to reopen on Saturday 4 July, people looking forward to the relaxation of lockdown are reminded to remain cautious against the spread of Covid-19.
A range of safety measures have been installed in the city to allow social distancing, and businesses are asked to adhere to strict safety regulations set by the Government to keep their customers safe.
The city centre and local shopping districts will already look a little different than usual.
Increased signage, road closures – including Deansgate, Thomas St and Stevenson Square – and footpath widening across the city are already in place to help people maintain social distancing. (See notes to editors for more information)
People who need to use public transport are reminded that face coverings are compulsory and travellers are advised to check www.tfgm.com – along with social media – for the latest travel advice. And anyone planning to have a night out is urged to plan ahead and know how they are going to get home.
Some bars and restaurants will require people to book ahead to ensure they can safely accommodate customers and every business will ask for names and contact details to help with track and tracing Covid cases.
Businesses will have installed safety measures inline with Government regulations – such as maximum number of households to a table and table service – and most will request contactless payments where possible.
Remember, you should only visit a restaurant or pub in your household group (or support bubble), or with one other household, or with up to 5 other people outdoors.
Fees have been waived for businesses to apply for temporary outdoor seating where limited indoor space would mean they would be unable to reopen otherwise. (See notes to editors for more information)
Businesses can find more guidance and support reopening here:
www.manchester.gov.uk/coronavirus
Cllr Pat Karney, Manchester City Council’s City Centre spokesperson, said: “We understand that many people have been waiting for their favourite bar or restaurant to reopen – but you should remain cautious. Businesses that are reopening will not be the same as usual and we would ask you to keep your distance from other people outside your household or bubble and adhere to the rules set out by the hospitality industry. They are there to keep you safe.
“There will also be a larger, visible police presence in the city centre to support the night time economy as businesses reopen, and they will also be there to explain and remind people about safety guidelines. A big thank you goes out to the officers there helping to keep us safe this weekend.”
Cllr Angeliki Stogia, Manchester City Council’s executive member environment, transport and planning, said: “We have introduced a range of safety measures through road closures and footpath widening in the city centre and district centres to help people keep their distance as much as possible. If you are planning to visit a local bar or restaurant it’s important that you adhere to the safety precautions in place and be sure you know how you are getting home. Wear a mask on public transport and check TfGM for travel updates.”
