Pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes have had new restrictions placed on them for 16 days in what Nicola Sturgeon has called a ‘short sharp action to arrest a worrying increase in infection.’
From Friday 9 October, hospitality businesses can operate indoors between 6am and 6pm only for the service of food and non-alcoholic drinks until the 25 October. Outdoor service, including alcohol, can continue till 10pm. The span spreads across two weeks and three weekends.
Hotel restaurants will be allowed to stay open past 6pm to residents only, as long as they don’t serve alcohol. Exemptions will apply to weddings and funerals.
Face coverings will also become mandatory in indoor communal settings such as staff canteens and work corridors. Shops and supermarkets will also have to return to strict 2m social distancing and one-way systems.
There were much more severe restrictions placed on the Central Belt, namely the following Health Board areas: Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Arran, Lothian and Forth Valley, where hospitality businesses have been closed for the 16-day period.
There are no travel restrictions in place and pre-booked trips should not be cancelled. However, you should not travel to the affected Health Board areas noted.
She apologised to hospitality businesses and said that £40m will be made available to help counter the impact of the new measures.
The move comes after 1054 people contracted coronavirus overnight, and passed the 1000-mark for the first time.
Current regulations will stay in place.
