Boris Johnson has announced that coronavirus restrictions will ease further in England under plans for a “significant return to normality” by Christmas.
At-a-glance: The latest changes
- From 25 July indoor gyms, pools and other sports facilities can reopen
- On 1 August the government will update its advice on going to work, asking employers to make decisions about how and where their staff can work safely
- From the same date, most remaining leisure settings, including bowling, skating rinks, casinos and all close contact services such as beauticians, will be allowed to reopen. Nightclubs and soft play areas will need to remain closed, although this will be kept under review
- Indoor performances to a live audience, subject to the success of pilots, will also be able to restart and larger gatherings in venues like sports stadiums will be piloted, with a view to wider reopening in the autumn
- Wedding receptions for up to 30 people will also be allowed from this date
- In September, schools, nurseries and colleges will be open for all children and young people on a full-time basis, while universities are also working to reopen as fully as possible
- From October, the government intends to allow audiences to return to stadiums, while conferences and other business events can recommence, subject to the outcome of pilots
As extra restrictions are currently in place in Blackburn & Darwen, we’ll have to wait and see if this timetable will be the same locally
