Lockdown restrictions could be eased further soon in Cheshire and the rest of the country.
The government’s roadmap to normalcy is expected to bring further changes on May 17.
Some of the changes will affect events such as weddings, funerals, vigils, and receptions.
In the meantime, due to other changes within the venues, customers can dine as long as they stay seated.
The third stage of the roadmap is the penultimate step in the governments plan to lift all legal restrictions on social contact by June 21st.
Check out some of the changes due to come on May 17th.
Social contact
The government plans to relax the boundaries for seeing friends and family whenever possible.
They want people to decide what “risk” is appropriate for their circumstances.
The next phase aims to lift most of the legal restrictions on meeting others outdoors.
People can meet outdoors in groups of up to 30 people. Six people or two households can meet inside.
Domestic overnight stays are permitted with people who are not in your household or in your bladder.
However, gatherings of 30 or more people remain illegal, as does the six or two household rule, which still applies.
The government website states that they will update the advice on social distancing between friends and family in step 3 at the latest.
This includes being able to hug others. Until others are told, people should keep their distance from anyone who is not in their household or in their support bubble.
Companies
The government website claims that “most companies” can reopen in all sectors except the “most risky sectors”.
The COVID-19 guidelines remain in place as companies are still unable to serve larger groups that do not comply with legal limits.
Indoor hospitality will return as the venues will not have to serve a full meal with alcoholic beverages.
The government has also said there will be no curfew, but customers will have to remain seated while inside the venue.
Entertainment venues such as cinemas and children will also reopen.
This includes the accommodation sector, where hotel hostels and B & Bs can once again receive guests.
The government has announced that some larger performances and sporting events can take place indoors.
Indoors, this is limited to 1,000 people or half full, whichever number is lower.
In outdoor areas this is 4,000 people or half full.
Larger outdoor seating where the crowd can spread out can accommodate up to 10,000 people.
Weddings, receptions, guards and funerals
Up to 30 people can attend weddings, receptions, guards, and funerals.
The government has stated that this limit will also apply to other types of significant life events, including bar mitzvahs and baptisms.
Social distancing rules
Before Step 4 begins, not before June 21, the government has announced it will complete a review of social distancing and long-term measures to lower COVID-19 rates.
This will then notify government decisions on repealing the rules at 1 meter plus, wearing a face mask, and other actions.
Working from home will also be considered when reviewing the long-term measures initially taken to reduce transmission rates.
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