Partially open for business
The ‘slow’ return to ‘normality’ started this week in the Valencia region
The ‘slow’ return to ‘normality’ started this week in the Valencia region
THE ‘SLOW, prudent and progressive’ opening of the regional economy started on Monday.
Regional president Ximo Puig said this would be done in stages so they can ensure ‘it is safe and effective’.
He urged people to carry on taking maximum care so the region can continue winning the battle against coronavirus.
For this reason the hostelry sector was only able to ‘partially open’ this week.
The new rules governing the situation were published in the regional official bulletin (DOGV) last Friday and came into effect at 00.00 on March 1.
Under the regulations, bars and restaurants can only operate as ‘outdoor venues’ using terraces.
They will have to close at 18.00, with a maximum of four people allowed at a table.
The DOGV notes that they can only operate at 75% of total capacity – tables must be at least 1.5 metres apart, and clients can only eat or drink at a table (not standing up).
They have to wear a face mask when they are not consuming.
Customers can only enter the interior of an establishment to use a toilet, while wearing a face mask.
Shops
All shops can operate at 50% of total capacity, including their car parks. They can remain open until 20.00.
However, ‘essential products’ can be offered after this time in stores that sell them, according to the DOGV – which includes food, drinks, hygiene and sanitary products, pet food, and other products.
Meetings
A maximum of four people from different households are permitted in family or social meetings in public open spaces.
The previous restrictions remain in place for private areas and homes, which means that households cannot mix, apart from people who live alone who are allowed to form a support bubble with one other household.
Sport
Sporting activities can only take place outdoors.
People cannot number more than four in a group for these activities.
However, people will only be obliged to wear a face mask when exercising ‘in zones or areas where there are a lot of people’ when social distancing cannot be observed, states the DOGV.
Municipal closures
Towns and cities with populations of more than 50,000 people will no longer be closed at weekends or bank holidays.
However, the regional borders have not been opened – and the curfew remains in place from 22.00 to 06.00 each day.
Parks and churches
Parks and gardens can open from 06.00 to 22.00.
Social distancing must be maintained.
Churches can operate at 50% of total capacity. People must be seated 1.5 metres apart.