Coronavirus update

Announcement on Tuesday (23 June) if pubs can re-open on 4 July

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to announce on Tuesday if the hospitality sector can reopen on 4 July – and that the 2m distancing rule in England will be relaxed, with some conditions.

Opening of non-essential shops

This week saw the opening of non-essential shops – with Bristol City Council reporting around 85,000 people visited Broadmead – 50 per cent lower than this time last year.

This included high street retailers and department stores, including book shops, electronics retailers, indoor markets, and shops selling clothes, shoes and toys.

But they have to follow the COVID-19 secure guidelines set out by the government in May.

Bristol City Council says: “Businesses have put measures in place to help with customer safety however this large influx of people presents different challenges and we are asking people to prepare to queue, consider visiting at non-peak times, and also remembering to keep a safe distance from others…”

Face coverings on public transport and in hospitals

Everyone must now wear face coverings on public transport in England. The Government guidance which came out on Monday (June 15) makes face masks a legal requirement for anyone in England travelling on a bus or coach, train or tram, aircraft, cable car, and ferry, hovercraft or other vessel.

Non-compliance carries a £100 fine, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days but there are exemptions for those with certain health conditions, disabled people and children under the age of 11. 

From this week they must also be worn by people attending local hospitals in Bristol for outpatient appointments or as visitors.

Face coverings can be made of cloth and homemade – and those who don’t bring one with them will be provided with one on arrival.

Face coverings worn as part of religious beliefs or cultural practice can also be used, provided they cover the mouth and nose and are not loose.

Advice on making and wearing face coverings can be found on the central Government website.

Social bubble

From tomorrow, Saturday 20 June at 10am adults living on their own or single parents with children under 18 will be allowed to form a “support bubble” with another household.

The people in a “social bubble” are allowed to interact with each other without social distancing. 

Visit Bristol City Council’s website for the latest information in the city.