Pubs, restaurants and cafes reopen successfully in Newcastle

Despite raucous scenes in other parts of the country as friends and families were allowed out for a drink, there was no repeat of the previous weekend’s alcohol fuelled disorder and visitors to the city’s bars heeded warnings to show common sense.

Cllr John-Paul Stephenson, cabinet member for environment and regulatory services, said: “We’re really pleased with how the weekend’s reopening went.

“Around 50 percent of licensed businesses welcomed customers back, with some really quite innovative ideas for how to operate while keeping both staff and customers safe.

“We must thank the trade for working with us and for all the time and investment they put in to prepare for the return of what is a vital part of our economy.

“And, of course, we must thank everyone who visited for being sensible, following the new rules and measures that have been put in place, and showing respect for our city and other people. Long may that continue.”

Newcastle City Council had teams of licensing and environmental health officers on the ground over the weekend to monitor and support businesses as they reopened.

The Government’s social distancing guidance continues to say that people should stay at least two metres apart unless measures have been put in place to mitigate the risk, at which point that distance can be reduced to one metre.

Among the ideas seen to keep people safe were protective screens, one-way systems, app and text message based ordering systems, with table service, and greater use of yards, car parks and gardens.

For information about working safely in Newcastle please visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/coronavirus