Boris Johnson’s Roadmap Announced

On 22nd February 2021, the Prime Minister announced the ‘roadmap’ that will bring England out of Lockdown. His announcement was filled with a certain amount of trepidation and caution, making it clear that there’s still quite a way to go before resuming “normal” lives.

Key Dates

8th of March: All schools reopen for all age groups. However, work-from-home guidance stays the same.

29th of March: Outdoor sports facilities, such as basketball courts and golf courses, reopen.

12th of April: Hospitality businesses can reopen for outdoor service. Non-essential shops also reopen, as do many other businesses, including hairdressers, zoos, theme parks, drive in cinemas, public libraries and indoor leisure facilities.

17th of May: Pubs, bars and restaurants reopen for indoor service. Hotels, cinemas, theatres and many other businesses also reopen.

21st of June: Everything reopens, including nightclubs.
The government will also review the need for face masks and social distancing. This will influence work-from-home guidance.

In addition, the government has extended its offer of workplace COVID testing. Businesses in England with 50 or more employees can now take part in a lateral flow testing scheme until June 2021.

There’s no doubt that for so many, the end of lockdown is good news, however, there will be a great deal to think about on the route to properly reopening the country.