Stage three will reopen more doors

THE First Minister said yesterday she hopes Scotland will be able to continue its emergence from lockdown as Covid-19 infections continue to fall.

Nicola Sturgeon is due to update MSPs tomorrow on the steps being taken to allow the country to return to a degree of normality.

She said: “We cannot go on indefinitely with severe restrictions on our economy and our way of life.”

So, what is likely to change under phase three?

MEETING PEOPLE INDOORS (JULY 10)

As of Friday, it’s expected people in Scotland will be allowed to meet members of up two other households indoors – but with a degree of physical distancing encouraged.

PUBS ALLOW CUSTOMERS INDOORS (JULY 15)

Bars, pubs and other hospitality businesses such as cafes should be free to allow customers back indoors from a week today. There will be an expectation of one-metre social distancing between tables so all businesses will be operating at reduced capacities.

HAIRDRESSERS REOPEN (JULY 15)

Sturgeon is expected to confirm hairdressers and barbers will be able to get back to business next week – as long as hygiene measures are in place.

OFFICES AND CALL CENTRES REOPEN (UNLIKELY TO BE BEFORE JULY 23)

The First Minister is expected to provide a date for when non-essential offices can reopen to staff. But, like pubs, the requirement for social distancing means capacities will be reduced.

CHURCHES OPEN FOR SERVICES (NOT BEFORE JULY 23)

Many people will be looking forward to attending a formal service again. It’s likely these will resume sometime towards the end of the month.

GYMS (UNLIKELY TO BE BEFORE AUGUST)

The First Minister is expected to announce at least a provisional date for when gyms can reopen but it may be August before people can start pumping iron again.