Southampton makes preparations for easing of COVID-19 restrictions on 17 May

Southampton is on track as restrictions ease from Monday as part of the third stage of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown

Up to 30 people can meet outdoors, attend weddings, funerals, receptions, christenings, bar mitzvahs and commemorative events such as wakes, or take part in indoor adult group sports and exercise classes.

The reopening of indoor hospitality with table service and some large indoor and outdoor events is welcomed. People can enjoy their favourite café, pub or restaurant and order, eat and drink while seated in a safe environment and the local economy will continue to recover.

From 17 May the following will be able to reopen:

• All businesses (except high risk sectors)
• Indoor locations and entertainment venues (such as cinemas and children’s play areas)
• Indoor hospitality venues, with table service only
• Some larger performances and sporting events can take place in indoor venues up to 1,000 people, or half-full (whichever is a lower number)
• All accommodation, including hotels, hostels and B&Bs
• Outdoor venues with a capacity of 4,000 people or half-full (whichever is a lower number)
• Outdoor seated venues, where crowds can spread out up to 10,000 people, or a quarter-full (whichever is lower number)

From Monday indoor hospitality, live indoor and some outdoor events can reopen, and we will have the opportunity to enjoy a weekend break. As lockdown eases, we must keep on going and continue to do the basics well and remember that the rule of 6 or 2 households still applies indoors. By sticking to the guidance, we will be saving lives, protecting our amazing NHS and be on track to getting our lives back to normal in the summer.

Dr Debbie Chase, Director of Public Health at Southampton City Council, said:

“We welcome the easing of restrictions but must remember that COVID-19 is still with us. As society begins to open up again, everyone needs to play their part to keep the virus under control. Remember hands face space and fresh air. Ventilation is important. Research shows that being in a room with fresh air can reduce your risk of infection from particles by over 70%, as fresh air dilutes the particles. Opening windows and keeping doors open in indoor spaces, including at home, is paramount to taking this next step safely.”

For more information on the rules from 17 May visit: www.gov.uk/coronavirus