Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Takeaways aim to remain open despite strict new virus rules
challenging rolling out these various changes during the pandemic but we’ve totally understood the reasons, given the challenges on the health system.”
He added: “We are just looking to install a new door and hatch while operating a door bell system and delivery bay to collect orders. This will cost us a couple of hundred quid to implement.
“Unfortunately, we haven’t had access to any Scottish Government funding. We couldn’t get access to the closure grants, that was only available to licenced premises – even though we had to follow the same rules with regards to closing times.
“We will continue to try to serve the public and key workers as best we can. My only immediate concern will be it putting the kibosh on people coming to the premises if they have to stand outside in the rain waiting on food.”
Heather Sharp, owner of Coffee & Co on Reform Street in Dundee, was taken aback by the news but said she would do everything possible to stay open.
She said: “Walking for a cup of coffee was getting people out and about. It makes them feel good.
“They were coming from the likes of Broughty Ferry to here and this was their treat, getting a nice coffee and walking back. They just want a bit of normality.
“We have a mobile card machine so this will just mean me running back and forward to the door.
“We’re closed at the moment on a Saturday anyway, so we’ll have to look at the logistics and we’ll get a plan for Monday. By hook or by crook we’ll make sure customers can get their coffee at the door.”
But other cafes that have operated takeaway and collection services may have to close under the new rules.
Jonathan Horne, owner of Henry’s Coffee House, which had only reopened one of its three branches in Dundee, said it would close until restrictions ease. He said: “We’re trading at the moment with one location but we will be closing.
“I know the first minister said the restrictions will come into place on Saturday, but she didn’t mention a time.
“So we don’t know yet whether our last day will be Friday or Saturday, it will depend on the time that’s given.
“We probably will stay closed until we come back out of this and can go back into Level 3.”