Level Zero brings relief and frustration Soft play open again but nightclubs in limbo
Stirling’s move into Level Zero has been greeted with mixed emotions by local businesses affected by the move.
The step down to the lowest level of Covid restrictions officially came into place in the early hours of Monday morning, leading to changes including an increase in the numbers allowed to meet indoors and outside and the capacity limits for weddings and funerals.
It has also led to the green light finally for some firms unable to open their doors during the pandemic - but for others, the wait continues after 16 months of uncertainty.
The nightclub sector is one of those which falls into this category, despite their English counterparts finally opening to revellers this week after a similarly long wait.
Adam McGeachie, who is general manager at Dusk nightclub in Stirling, told the Observer a lack of detail and continued uncertainty from ministers over the reopening plans for the sector had added to the stresses caused by the extended closure.
Mr McGeachie said: “Our hope would be for the club to re-open come September.
“However, the key word is hope, as our section of the industry has been left guessing, and in complete limbo with regards to the road map and a proposed date for re-opening.
“Even with nightclubs officially reopening without restrictions in England, the Scottish Government continue to be evasive on the matter and are still yet to provide any formal detail or guidance for nightclubs reopening.
“This level of uncertainty has further exacerbated both the operational and financial impact of our venue being closed for over 16 months.
“Our ability to accurately plan, invest and prepare for the months ahead is severely limited.
“This adverse impact is extended further to our supply chain and freelancers such as DJs and sound and light engineers.
“We are in absolutely no doubt, that there is an overwhelming desire from our target market for the return of clubbing and music events. It is essential that nightclubs like ourselves are preserved for the local community and student populace.
“We play a vital part in local culture, entertainment provision, social well-being and the night time economy.
“Therefore, we look forward to receiving official details and guidance on reopening in the coming days. In order that we as a venue can return to trading responsibly, in support of the government and national effort to live with the virus.”
However, while nightclub owners still wait for clarity, Monday finally brought relief to one soft play business owner who has been closed since the start of the pandemic.
Jennifer Stirling, owner of Kidz Town Role Play in Stirling, said: “It was really good - we were full in the morning and had another two sessions in the afternoon.
“People have been absolutely desperate for this and we’ve had a lot of people using our sensory room because people with babies have had nowhere to go.
“We’ve brought every member of staff in to experience how we’re doing things but the way we imagined things running was the way it went so that was really positive.
“The customers have been really good and appreciate what we are doing with temperature checks and all of the cleaning and sanitising ahead of the next session.
“It’s going to take a little time to get used to things and we will get things so off pat that it will become second nature after a while.”