Wales sets out a road out of lockdown to open up economy
Steven Morris, the Guardian
The Welsh government has set out a detailed roadmap out of lockdown that it hopes will culminate in the reopening of most of the country’s economy, including indoor hospitality, by the end of May.
As long as Covid levels remain stable, two households will be able to meet indoors from 10 May, and the Welsh government is also planning a “small number” of outdoor sporting and cultural outdoor “pilot events” that could be attended by up to 1,000 people. It is working with the Muslim Council to consider how Eid can be celebrated safely.
The first minister, Mark Drakeford, said: “Thanks to a real team effort across Wales, coronavirus cases remain stable, and the vaccination programme continues apace. As a result, the Welsh government has the headroom to continue its careful, step-by-step approach to relaxing restrictions.
“The review we have concluded this week means we can continue with our programme of further reopening of the economy and loosening the restrictions in place.”
Should public health conditions remain favourable, the following relaxations will go ahead:
Monday 12 April
The full return of children to schools for face-to-face education, all post-16 learners will return to further education and training centres, and university campuses will be able to open for blended face-to-face/online learning for all students
All remaining shops can reopen
All remaining close-contact services can open, including mobile services
Travel restrictions on travelling into and out of Wales will be lifted. However, restrictions on travel to countries outside the common travel area (the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and the Republic of Ireland) without a reasonable excuse will remain in place
Viewings at wedding venues can resume by appointment
Outdoor canvassing for elections can begin.
Monday 26 April
Outdoor attractions, including funfairs and theme parks, would be allowed to reopen
Outdoor hospitality can resume, including at cafes, pubs and restaurants
Indoor hospitality will remain restricted.
Monday 3 May
Organised outdoor activities for up to 30 people can again take place
Weddings receptions can take place outdoors, but will be limited to 30 people.
Monday 10 May
Gyms, leisure centres and fitness facilities can reopen. This will include individual or one-to-one training, but not exercise classes
Two households will be able to meet indoors.
The current Labour government in Wales will also make preparations for a set of changes that would need to be ratified by the next government after the May elections. These will include the resumption or re-opening of children’s indoor activities, community centres and organised indoor activities for adults, limited to a maximum of 15 people, including exercise classes.
It suggested that the next government could consider enabling indoor hospitality and remaining visitor accommodation to reopen in advance of the spring bank holiday at the end of the month.
A government spokesperson said: “These are indicative dates to give the sectors time to plan and prepare – decisions on these will be made nearer the time, once the impact of other relaxations have been assessed and subject to the health situation.”
