Mark Drakeford, the first minister of Wales, has announced the country’s first steps out of lockdown, including dates when some businesses could reopen.
As with England and Scotland’s roadmaps, reopening of schools takes priority. But unlike the others, Mark Drakeford has created a plan based on dates rather than numbered stages. That said, case numbers will have to stay low and certain conditions will need to be met in order to ease restrictions.
Here’s the current plan.
From March 13
- The ‘stay home’ message will change to ‘stay local’. This means that people can travel in their local area – that’s usually within five miles
- Outdoor sports facilities reopen including tennis courts, golf courses and bowling greens
From March 15
- Hairdressers and barbers reopen to cut hair by appointment only
From March 22
- Non-essential aisles in supermarkets reopen
- Garden centres reopen
From March 27 (if review conditions are met)
- Self-contained accommodation reopens for one household
- ‘Stay local’ guidance lifted and tourism reopens. This will allow people to travel within Wales
From April 12 (dependent on April 1 review)
- All close contact services reopen
- All non-essential retail reopens
Will I get funding if my business has to remain closed?
An additional £150m will be available to support businesses to the end of March if they can’t reopen.
The extra funding will see businesses in the hospitality, tourism, leisure and non-essential retail sectors that pay non-domestic rates qualify for an additional payment of up to £5,000.
Drakeford also made reference to other business support, such as the extension of the business rates holiday, announced in the Chancellor’s latest Budget.
He added: “We all want to see Wales re-open and the return of a more normal life. This is within sight – but only if we can keep the virus under control. No one wants us to have to reintroduce strict restrictions, to retreat from the progress we have made. Only by working together, can we help keep Wales safe.”
Further reading
Covid-19 roadmap – plan for shops, gyms and zoos to reopen from April 12
