Government’s roadmap out of lockdown explained by sector

The government unveiled its plan for easing lockdown restrictions yesterday (February 22).

Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined the roadmap for easing restrictions in Parliament before addressing the nation in a press conference.

The PM shared his four-step plan for exiting lockdown and reopening businesses, schools and recreational facilities.

Mr Johnson stressed that all planned dates are dependent on the continued reduction of COVID-19 cases and deaths as well as the progress of the vaccine rollout.

Step 1 - Education

On March 8 schools across England will reopen to all pupils, as well as breakfast and after-school clubs.

Step 2 - Retail, leisure & beauty

On April 12 non-essential retail is set to reopen, along with personal care including hairdressers and nail salons.

Indoor leisure facilities such as gyms and self contained holiday lets will reopen.

Zoos, theme parks and drive-in cinemas will reopen, as well as public libraries and community centres.

Pubs and restaurants will also be able to begin to re-open their outdoor spaces.

Step 3 - Hospitality & live events

Pubs and restaurants will reopen indoors, along with cinemas and children’s play areas, hotels, hostels, and B&Bs.

Theatres and concert halls will also reopen, and stadiums will be considered for reopening depending on their size and capacity.

Step 4 - Exit from lockdown

The final step in the roadmap out of lockdown would see everything reopen up to and including nightclubs.

In his speech in the House of Commons yesterday, Mr Johnson explained: “I know there will be many people who will be worried that we are being too ambitious and that it is arrogant to impose any kind of plan upon a virus.

“I agree that we must always be humble in the face of nature and we must be cautious, but I really also believe that the vaccination programme has dramatically changed the odds in our favour and it is on that basis that we can now proceed.”