Support for traders and shoppers as non-essential stores reopen
Published: Monday, 15 June, 2020
Non-essential shops can open from today and community leaders have a message of support for high street traders who have been closed during the COVID-19 lockdown.
New Government guidance means all non-essential shops compliant with a coronavirus risk assessment and which are following government distancing and hygiene guidelines can reopen from Monday, June 15.
Everyone must still stay two metres apart from each other, but consequently expect their shopping trips to take longer.
“We recognise that this has been a very hard time for many shop owners and operators who have had to close their doors to the public due to the Coronavirus pandemic,” said SDC Leader Doina Cornell. “We applaud the efforts of many who have adapted their businesses to takeaways and mail order operations but getting the high streets reopened is a key part of driving the local economy.
“We’re working with partners including Gloucestershire County Council, town and parish councils and Stroud & District Chamber of Trade to do all we can to ensure businesses can open safely.”
Stroud District Council is also working with partners on a wider high street recovery plan which will be publicised in the coming weeks.
To help support shoppers and traders, public toilets run by Stroud District Council in Stroud town centre and Stratford Park, Dursley, Nailsworth and Stonehouse, and disabled toilets in Wotton-under-Edge are expected to reopen tomorrow (Tuesday, June 16).
For employers, employees and the self-employed, Stroud District Council has drawn up a useful guide on how to work safely, which is being updated with the latest guidance: www.stroud.gov.uk/workingsafely
And Stroud & District Chamber of Trade has useful resources for traders to help them too: www.stroudchamber.org.uk/coronavirus including a YouTube video of how to shop safely.
Councillor Kevin Cranston, Stroud Town Mayor, encouraged people to support local shops but to be mindful that shopping will be now be a very different experience.
“Please be observant of social distancing measures and be patient,” said Councillor Cranston. “Our High Street traders need our support now more than ever. Please support our local shops that make Stroud town centre the special place that it is."
Nailsworth Town Council will be brightening up the town with flowers on the pavements to remind people of social distancing. Nailsworth Farmer’s Market reopens on Saturday 27th June in the Town Square (bus station) to allow more space. As well as the usual stalls there will be a ‘click and collect’ service; details from the Nailsworth Chamber of Trade website and the Civic Centre notice board.
www.nailsworthonline.co.uk/chamber-of-trade
Government advice means that from Monday, you will be able to visit any type of shop and some additional outdoor attractions - drive-in cinemas, and animal attractions like zoos, farms and safari parks.
You will have to wear a face covering on public transport.
You will still be able to meet outdoors with groups of up to six people from different households, provided social distancing is observed and you stay 2 metres away from anyone outside your household or support bubble.
Cafes, bars, restaurants and pubs cannot yet open however.
It’s important to remember to:
- stay at home as much as possible
- work from home if you can
- limit contact with other people
- keep your distance if you go out (2 metres apart where possible)
- wash your hands regularly
- Do not leave home if you or anyone in your household has symptoms.
For local updates: www.stroud.gov.uk/coronavirus