Non-essential retailers reopening on 15 June
With Covid-19 lockdown restrictions relaxing we are putting measures in place to prepare for the phased reopening of non-essential retail businesses on Monday 15 June.
SSDC is engaging with a range of groups including businesses, town councils and shoppers to ensure the safest possible experience when visiting the district’s high streets.
Which businesses will re-open from 15 June?
High street retailers and department stores, including book shops, electronics retailers, tailors, auction houses, photography studios, indoor markets, and shops selling clothes, shoes and toys, will be allowed to open their doors again provided they follow the COVID-19 secure guidelines set out in May.
What are we doing to keep shoppers and businesses safe?
To create safe shopping spaces we are introducing measures including temporary barriers and signage as well as reviewing street furniture. Car parks will be open as usual.
There are also proposed road closures in Yeovil and Chard which form part of a joined up county wide approach to increase active travel opportunities in Somerset and create safe wide open spaces which give shoppers confidence to return to the high street. Following Government advice to avoid the use of public transport where possible we are looking to encourage active travel such as walking and cycling and aim to ensure effective access for all forms of travel. Although this will result in limited road closures we will work with those affected to minimise disruption.
We have contacted all town councils to ask them what signage or measures they may need to create safe high streets.
Additional measures you can take following Government guidance are:
- Wear a face covering in enclosed spaces like shops
- Try and walk on the left side of streets where possible
- Wash your hands as soon as you return home and avoid touching your face while outdoors
Which roads will be closed?
It is important to stress that these measures have been taken for the safety of everyone and to enable social distancing. These arrangements are subject to ongoing review.