SHOP AROUND THE CLOCK
EARLY MORNING QUEUES AS SHOPS REOPEN
The council itself has also broughtinfurtherchangesincluding the removal of some seating, the introduction of one way systems, temporary traffic measures and road diversions.
Adaptations to the locations of bus stops have been made to allow people to queue for shops, wait for public transport and safely pass each other.
Meanwhile, Vine Place andHolmesidehavealsobeen made one way westbound withaneastboundcontraflow cycle lane.
Council leader, Graeme Miller,stressedthatbusinesses have also played a key part inadaptingtothecoronavirus lockdown.
“Life under lockdown has taken its toll on the majority of our key industries – none more so than the hospitality and retail sectors and ensuring they make it through this crisis and continue to create the vibrant and dynamic high streetweallwanttoseeinSunderland, relies on residents shopping local,” he said.
“Weknowthatmanyofthe city’s independent businesses have worked tirelessly to adaptduringlockdown–some continuing to provide the essential products and services whichsomanyofusrelyupon, andothersoperatingonlinein order to stay afloat.
“We’ve seen many businesses go out of their way to introduce dedicated shopping hours for the elderly and our frontline workers, ensuring that those who were most susceptible to the virus were given ample opportunity to shop in the safest possible environment.”
Coun Miler added: “However, while it’s important to continue supporting our local businesses, it’s also vital that we do not lose sight that weremainembroiledinafight against this virus – and it is a fight that is far from over.
“It’s essential that we all continue to observe the social distancing rules and remember that the advice remains to stay at home as much as possible to help control the virus and save lives.”