WALES’ fire-break lockdown comes to an end today – as England remains in a four-week shut down.
Health ministers confirmed last week that the draconian restrictions would end as promised – meaning shops and pubs will reopen and people can see family and friends again.
All four nations of the UK are choosing different coronavirus rules, including different shutdowns, causing chaos for the public to try and keep up.
However, heath officials said the effect of the 17-day shutdown would not yet be seen in the figures – but they were hopeful it would have an effect in the coming days and weeks.
First Minister Mark Drakeford said today: “I am confident we will see the impact of what we have done over the last 17 days in the weeks that now follow.”
The new restrictions will be in place across the nation, abandoning the regional approach that saw a patchwork of different rules in different places.
So what will happen in Wales now and what are the new rules?
Schools
Schools will reopen again after an extended break. Kids will be able to return to their education, as the break fell partly over their half-term.
Friends and family
Two households can form a bubble and see each other indoors.
This means family and friends will be able to spend time with each other once again after a long break apart.
15 people can meet inside for organised activities.
And up to 30 people can meet up outdoors.
Pubs
Groups of four people from different households can meet indoors or outdoors from today.
That means trips to pubs, cafes and restaurants are back on – as long as people follow social distancing and hygiene rules.
Transport and travel
People are now able to travel within Wales again – and are allowed to leave their homes without a reasonable excuse.
But they still can’t travel into England, where a national lockdown is still in place.
And though travel is now allowed, people are still urged to be careful and stay home as much as possible, though they are allowed to go on holiday or breaks away within Wales.
Foreign breaks are not allowed.
Mr Drakeford added: “Although people can travel from today, the very clear message from the government is only travel if it’s really necessary. This is not an invitation to get in your car and start travelling around Wales.
“The fewer people we meet, the fewer journeys we all make, the more we work from home, the safer we will all be.”
Shops
Non-essential shops, hairdressers, gyms and other indoor venues can now reopen.
But the 10pm curfew on buying alcohol in shops will contine.
Any non-essential items which were controversially covered up, will be able to be sold once again.
Places of worship
Can reopen again for services and private prayer.
Work
People should continue to work from home if they are able to.
But people can go into the office if they have to.
