Kingston prepares for the safe reopening of high streets across the borough

On Monday 12 April we will move to the next stage of the government’s roadmap, which will see all shops allowed to open, along with close contact services, including hairdressers and beauty salons. Restaurants and pubs can serve food and alcohol to customers sitting outdoors. Gyms and spas can also reopen, as can zoos, theme parks, libraries and community centres. 

Nazeya Hussain, Executive Director of Place at Kingston Council, said:

“We are delighted that businesses across the borough can now reopen, it will be fantastic to welcome shoppers back to our town centres and high streets. Kingston has so many vibrant local businesses, and we want to say thank you to all those who have supported our communities throughout this pandemic.”

Iona Lidington, Director of Public Health at Kingston Council, said:

"We would like to thank everyone who has played their part in Keeping Kingston Safe and following the rules during lockdown - your efforts have no doubt saved lives. 

 

“While cases of COVID-19 are decreasing, the virus has not gone away. We all still have a vital role to play in stopping the spread of the virus by following the rules and remembering the life saving prevention behaviours of hands, face, space and fresh air. This continues to be a top priority - we want to make sure Kingston stays open and that we can all support and enjoy our wonderful local businesses in a safe way. 

 

“Everyone can also now have free twice-weekly rapid result tests, for people without COVID-19 symptoms. This will help stop on-ward spread and thereby keep levels of the virus in the borough as low as possible. Check our website for information on where you can get these tests, and please help us to continue to Keep Kingston Safe.”

Kingston has introduced a number of measures to make public spaces safer, including investing in new benches, reinstating market place seating and encouraging businesses selling food to apply for temporary pavement licences to maximise their ability to trade in a safe way.  

In addition, Shopmobility Kingston will be offering help to anyone with a mobility impairment to make the most of the town centre reopening. With a new fleet of electric scooters and wheelchairs, Shopmobility will make it easier for everyone to shop, meet friends, or eat out in Kingston town centre.

Kirsten Henly, Chief Executive, Kingston First said:

“After many months of closure, our businesses are keen to welcome customers back safely and we can’t wait to see the town full of life once more. Our new reopening campaign will add lots of colour to the town centre, encouraging local residents and visitors to rediscover the familiar sights, sounds, smells, feelings and tastes of Kingston that we’ve all missed. We’ve also invested in additional deep-cleaning and outdoor seating so people can enjoy meeting up in a safe environment.”

Forbes Low, Chief Executive at Kingston Chamber of Commerce, said:

“Having worked in a small independent record store many years ago, I can only imagine how much it will mean to these businesses to welcome us back, after so many months of not being open. They will have worked hard to get their stock prepared, the environment welcoming and safe and their staff ready to go again. It is vital that we all play our part by wearing a mask, being patient and considerate of people around us.”

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