Step 2 of Roadmap confirmed: Non-essential businesses reopening on 12th April

The ‘four tests’ of assessment for Step 2 of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown have been passed. This means Monday 12th April 2021 will see many businesses reopening.

Twice weekly rapid tests will be available to everyone from 9 April.

12 April will see the opening of non-essential retail; personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons; and public buildings, including libraries and community centres.

Indoor leisure facilities such as gyms will also reopen (but only for use by people on their own or in household groups); as will most outdoor attractions and settings including outdoor hospitality venues, zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas.

Self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen.

Hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors at Step 2 and there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew, although customers must order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’).

Wider social contact rules will apply in all these settings to prevent indoor mixing between different households.

While funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners, the number of people able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events such as wakes will rise to 15.

Click here for a full list of what you can and cannot do from Monday 12th April 2021.