The steps Middleton Grange shopping centre will take to keep customers and staff safe when it fully reopens next month

Shops classed as selling essential goods, such as food or houseware, have been allowed to remain open during the coronavirus outbreak.

But the Government announced this week that non-essential retailers would also be allowed to open from June 15, so long as they can

The Prime Minister has said outdoor markets and showrooms will be permitted to start trading again in England from June 1, providing customers can be kept safe.

All other non-essential retailers, including shops selling clothes, shoes, toys, furniture, books, and electronics, plus tailors, auction houses, photography studios, and indoor markets, will be allowed to follow suit and reopen to customers two weeks later, from 15 June.

Middleton Grange manager Mark Rycraft said: “The government directive now states that all ‘non-essential’ stores can open from the 15 June. Individual stores will still need to ensure that they can adhere to the social distancing rules and that customers and staff can circulate safely.”

Measures in the centre itself to enforce social distancing will include;

- Advice posters

- Messages on the PA system to remind people to keep two metres apart

- Directional arrows

- Extra training for staff.

Mr Rycraft said: “We will be adhering to social distancing rules so that customers and staff can circulate safely,” said Mr Rycraft.

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