Step 2 of roadmap shows positive signs for local businesses

Figures show that, since the latest phase began, more than 95,000 people visited the town centre on Monday 12 and Tuesday 13 April. This is above the national average.

“It’s been a great week so far in terms of welcoming people back to enjoying non-essential retail, hospitality and leisure facilities,” said Business Doncaster Head of Service, Chris Dungworth.

“We want to encourage Doncaster residents to spend with local businesses, in particular, and do so in a safe and responsible manner.

“Our message to members of the public is please plan ahead and be patient. All organisations must adhere to government guidelines and we hope that the general public appreciate that it is for everyone’s safety.”

Doncaster Council’s Director of Public Health, Dr Rupert Suckling, has written to more than 3,000 businesses in the borough thanking them for their continued support. He also advised, as per government guidelines, that the following businesses and activities can re-open:
• Personal care (such as hairdressers, tattooists, nail bars etc)
• Libraries
• Most outdoor attractions
• Indoor leisure services for individual use (e.g. Gyms)
• Self-contained accommodation (single household use only)
• All children’s activities
• Indoor parent and child groups (up to 15 parents)
• Outdoor hospitality (pubs, restaurants, cafes etc)

The reopening of hospitality in an outdoor setting is the latest step on the way to further easements planned for May and June across the country.
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Mr Dungworth continued, “Things might take some getting used to, initially. The washing of hands, covering of faces (where necessary) and making space is still strongly advised – and we’re all used to doing that by now!
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“To attempt to keep the Covid-19 risk at a minimum there will be various signage, floor markings and the NHS 'test and trace' QR codes at all shops and businesses.
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“And if people don’t feel wholly comfortable visiting just yet then that’s perfectly understandable. However, if they do want their fix of retail therapy, there are lots of Doncaster businesses now prominent online.”

For the latest information, please go to www.doncaster.gov.uk/coronavirus