Scotland is on the road to easing Covid-19 restrictions, with the government unveiling a new timetable for reopening. In a welcome move, non-essential retail stores are set to welcome customers back from 26 April, signaling a significant step towards a sense of normality returning to the country. The Stay at Home order is due to be lifted on 2 April, but people are being urged to Stay Local for the following three weeks. This means that individuals should refrain from unnecessary travel beyond their local authority area.
From 5 April, Click and Collect services for non-essential retail will resume after a hiatus of 11 weeks. Moreover, hairdressers and barbers will be able to reopen three weeks ahead of schedule. A broader range of retailers, including garden centers, homeware stores, and car showrooms, will also be given the green light to operate once again.
The most momentous change is expected to take place on 26 April, when all remaining stores and close contact services can recommence trading. Outdoor hospitality venues such as pubs, bars, cafés, and restaurants will be permitted to serve groups of up to six individuals from three households until 22:00. Alcohol consumption will be allowed, and there will be no stipulation for food to be served alongside drinks. Indoor hospitality will also partially reopen, with food and non-alcoholic beverages being served until 20:00 for groups of up to four people from a maximum of two households. Contact tracing measures will continue to be in effect.
Additionally, indoor gyms and swimming pools will be given the green light to reopen for individual exercise, and driving lessons and tests can resume. Non-essential work within people’s residences will also be allowed. The government’s goal is to transition most council areas from level three to level two by 17 May, paving the way for further easing of restrictions.
In essence, Scotland is gradually edging towards a complete reopening as the phased approach to lifting Covid-19 restrictions unfolds. With the implementation of the new roadmap, residents and businesses can now start gearing up for a return to a semblance of normalcy.
For more information on Scotland’s Covid-19 restrictions and reopening plans, visit the official Scottish Government website at gov.scot. Stay informed and stay safe.
