WALES is tightening their coronavirus lockdown measures even further to stop people staying outside for longer than they need to.
The Welsh government announced today it was cracking down on people lingering outdoors after going out for an essential reason.
Stay at home advice in Wales has been given an added requirement for people “not to leave or remain away” from their homes for too long.
They are still allowed to go out to get food, exercise, medicine or essential work, but they can’t stay any longer than absolutely necessary.
It comes amid concerns more people are flouting lockdown rules as the weather warms up.
The Welsh government are also considering a fresh crackdown on people visiting their second homes, and they will be asking police if extra restrictions are needed.
Other rules have been formally relaxed, and “click and collect” services are now allowed to open as long as they can apply two metre social distancing rules.
People with particular health conditions or disabilities have also had rules relaxed so they can leave home for exercise more than once a day.
The changes will come into effect tomorrow, as First Minister Mark Drakeford gears up to follow Scotland’s lead by laying down a blueprint for Wales to leave lockdown.
Mr Drakeford will announce the country’s plan for exit later today with seven questions which will determine how and when measures can be relaxed.
Mr Drakeford said: “The restrictions are staying in place, which mean you must stay at home to save lives and protect the NHS.”
“Over the last few months, we have taken unprecedented steps to protect everyone, but particularly those most at risk from serious illness.
“This approach has helped the NHS prepare and cope with coronavirus and it has also helped to save many lives.
“The changes we are introducing supplement the rules already in force but they respond to some challenges being faced in parts of the country and by families throughout Wales.
“Our message has not changed – anyone can get coronavirus, anyone can spread it. So please, stay home, protect the NHS, and save lives.”
People rushed to B&Q after they opened all their stores todayHealth Secretary Matt Hancock last night emphasized the importance of a “four nation” approach to easing lockdown restrictions.
He said Scotland’s plan was based off the UK Government’s five key tests that must be met before the lockdown can be relaxed.
The new measures come as Brits start to deal with “lockdown fatigue” and begin breaking social distancing measures by getting in cars and visiting parks.
Traffic on roads continues to rise with thousands of people keen to get out in the sunshine, and new figures show shopping is up 10 per cent.
Some stores have started to open back up, and stores such as B&Q attracted massive queues of people wanting to try their hand at DIY projects.
London’s Hyde Park was packed with young Brits exercising and relaxing in the sunshine, as temperatures soared up to 24C in the capital.
The Welsh government is concerned the warm weather will tempt more people to sneak away to second homes, and if police forces think existing measures need to be strengthened the Welsh government is expected to do so.
Downing Street has continually refused to set out its own exit strategy over concerns it could “muddy the water” and distract people from the stay at home advice.
