Hartlepool drinkers and diners urged to 'buy local but take care' as bars prepare to reopen

Scores of town pubs, restaurants and cafes are expected to welcome back customers for the first time in more than three months on Saturday, July 4, following the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, the chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s regeneration services committee, said: “With restaurants, pubs and bars permitted to reopen from this weekend provided they have proper social distancing measures in place, I would once again urge people to please buy local to support our local businesses.

“Traditionally, some of our happiest times are when we are out for a meal or a drink and it’s great that we can start to support our hospitality sector again.

“Our teams have been out giving advice to restaurants, pubs and bars on social distancing arrangements, to help keep both staff and customers safe.

“However, if you are planning to visit a restaurant, bar or pub, each and every one of us has a duty to behave responsibly, respecting the social distancing rules and practising good hygiene at all times.

“That is just as vital a part of supporting our restaurants, pubs and bars as going out and spending money with them again.

“Don’t be complacent - nobody wants to see a resurgence of covid-19.”

Many town venues will be remaining closed this weekend, however, as they finalise new health and safety precautions.

Police will still be on patrol with officers urging drinkers to plan both their day out and journey home in advance.

The council’s new team of community street ambassadors, set up to provide a reassuring presence to residents and visitors, will also be present.

Gill Alexander, the authority’s chief executive, added: “People have livelihoods that need protecting and we also recognise the huge sacrifices that people have made in abiding by the rules and regulations of the lockdown to date.

“However, it is important to acknowledge that we are not yet entirely out of the woods and it is important that we do not let our guard down at this critical point in the battle against the virus.”

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