While things may still change depending on the spread of COVID-19, here’s what we know so far about how the lockdown ‘roadmap’ will affect businesses:
- 8th of March: All schools reopen for all age groups. However, work-from-home guidance stays the same.
- 29th of March: Outdoor sports facilities, such as basketball courts and golf courses, reopen.
- 12th of April: Hospitality businesses can reopen for outdoor service. Non-essential shops also reopen, as do many other businesses, including hairdressers, zoos, theme parks, drive-in cinemas, public libraries and indoor leisure facilities.
- 17th of May: Pubs, bars and restaurants reopen for indoor service. Hotels, cinemas, theatres and many other businesses also reopen.
- 21st of June: Everything reopens, including nightclubs.
- The government will also review the need for face masks and social distancing. This will influence work-from-home guidance.
In addition, the government has extended its offer of workplace COVID testing. Businesses in England with 50 or more employees can now take part in a lateral flow testing scheme until June 2021.
There’s no doubt that for many, the end of lockdown is good news. But it’s true there will be a lot to think about on the road to reopening.
