Pub’s all set to welcome back regulars safely
SCREENS at the bar, separate pods for each table and two-metre markings on the floor – this is the future of the Scottish pub once we are allowed back to our locals.
And one shrewd landlord has already revamped his Glasgow pub for drinking and dining in the age of social distancing.
Measures at the Ardnamurchan on Hope Street include individual pods for customers to eat and drink in.
Publican Neil Douglas called in workmen to make sure the bar is ready to reopen as soon as the pub and restaurant Covid-19 closure order is lifted.
Neil, 44, said: “We’re fortunate to have a large venue. We’ve taken out a third of our seating to separate customers and the layout will work whether people have to maintain a one or two-metre distance.”
The Scottish Government is pursuing a staggered approach to ending lockdown, with beer gardens expected to reopen in phase two from Thursday.
But anyone heading to their local for an indoor tipple will have to wait until phase three.
Regulars returning to the Ardnamurchan will be able to book a private booth. And at the bar, Perspex screens will separate staff from customers supping a pint.
Neil said: “There’s such a high demand, it has taken more than a month to get the Perspex in.”
Similar screens have been fitted at his other bar, Basils in Newhaven, Edinburgh.
Neil drafted in health and safety consultants to advise on the measures needed to make sure his venues can be among the first bars in Scotland to reopen.
Other measures include a one-way system and infrared taps and toilet flushes.
Neil has also factored in needing to close either pub one day a week so they can be deep-cleaned if necessary. And staff will get inductions before doors open on how to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Neil said: “We’re really happy with the changes.
“Our aim is to keep all the character and ambience of the venues and maintain a great experience for customers while providing the safety measures that many will want.”
Ardnamurchan’s 17 staff and 11 at Basils have been furloughed, while Government grants and a rent reduction from Star Pubs & Bars have helped the bars through the crisis.
Neil’s wife Julie, 32, said: “We’ve got staff who have children who want to get back to work – and we want to get them back to work safely.”