First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed lockdown easing in Scotland will take place on Monday as planned.
Beer gardens, cafes, shops and gyms are to reopen across the country 26 April as the continued suppression of coronavirus and the success of the vaccine rollout meant some restrictions can be lifted.
Ms Sturgeon told a Covid-19 briefing that on Monday the country will move from Level 4 to Level 3 of the Scottish Government’s five tiers of restrictions.
It means cafes, restaurants and beer gardens can open, along with shops, gyms, libraries and museums.
Hospitality will need to close at 8pm indoors and 10pm outdoors, with alcohol only allowed to be served outside.
The government has faced criticism however from the hospitality and night time industries over their “disappointing response” to the financial strains many of these businesses have been under throughout lockdown.
The Night Time Industries Association also warned of an impending unemployment tsunami, with up to 24,000 jobs thought to be at risk.
Lockdown easing breakdown:
All of Scotland on level 4 will move to level 3 on April 26.
All of Scotland will move to level 2 on May 17.
The intention is to move to level 1 on June 7 then return to “normality” in July.
Travel between Scotland, England and Wales will be permitted and tourist accommodation can welcome back visitors.
Funerals and weddings – including post-funeral events and receptions – will be allowed to take place with up to 50 people, but no alcohol may be served.
Other changes include the resumption of driving lessons and tests.
Ms Sturgeon told the briefing that two deaths from coronavirus and 178 positive tests have been recorded in the past 24 hours.
This continued decline in the number of cases means the country could relax restrictions, she said.
Further lockdown easing is due to take place on May 17, with Scotland planning to move to Level 2 of its restrictions, and to Level 1 on June 7.
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