Retailers prepare to welcome back shoppers

From 15 June 2020, the Government is relaxing lockdown rules to allow non-essential retailers to open their doors if they can demonstrate that they are Covid secure, in accordance with the Government guidance.

Walk rounds have taken place in the shopping areas in Hunstanton, King's Lynn and Downham Market, pinch points have been identified and some street furniture has been removed.

Barbers, hairdressers, beauty salons, hospitality premises, theatres and cinemas will not be opening on 15th June. Further guidance on the opening of these businesses has not yet been published by the Government.

The Borough Council has issued a press release and it says that Cllr Graham Middleton, Borough Council of King's Lynn & West Norfolk Cabinet Member for Business Development, said:

"Retailers are working hard to ensure their premises are Covid Secure so that they can offer customers a safe shopping environment. They are looking forward to welcoming customers old and new. It is vital for the local economy that people support our local businesses if they can.

"We are asking people to think ahead before they travel:

- to ensure they avoid the busiest times between 10am and 1pm - take advantage of the extended opening hours that some shops are offering.
- to bring hand sanitiser, tissues and face coverings with them,
- to prepare to pay with contactless methods if at all possible, this includes using the cashless parking app.

"We also ask that people come prepared to queue, or to walk round the block a second time to avoid queuing across neighbouring stores or blocking the paths or highways, to follow the social distancing guidelines and to listen to instructions from staff in various shops. We are also asking people to keep left as they walk round the main shopping ares. Signage and floor stickers will be in place to remind people.

"We, along with retailers are putting these measures in place to protect us all, so please be patient and respectful as it will take some time for new arrangements to bed in and be monitored and adjusted in line with changes to guidance."