Responsibility is being sought in Bradford this weekend as pubs, cafes and restaurants open for the first time since March.
Rates of infection have dipped in Bradford in recent weeks, but a risk of localised outbreaks is possible due to a high number of people still testing positive for coronavirus.
Nearly 46 cases per 100,000 were recorded by the week ending June 28, the second-highest rate England, according to Public Health England
Bradford Council and the UK Government will support the re-opening of more non-essential businesses this weekend to boost the local economy following the lockdown, but they urge responsibility as COVID-19 infection rates need to be under control to move forward.
Police and council staff will also be visiting businesses over the weekend to speak to provide support and reassurance to residents and business owners.
Social distancing measures will be in place to ensure customers remain safe. This includes; regular hand washing, remaining two metres apart where possible and not speaking at a volume. Face coverings should also be worn where staying two-metres apart is not possible.
Council Leader Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe said: “The only way the economy can be sustained is if we all act responsibly. If you must go out this weekend remember to keep social distancing, you should consider wearing a mask and keep interaction to a minimum.
“As we take more and more steps towards easing lockdown, it’s easy to believe that Covid-19 is less of a threat to our health and the health of our family and friends. This is simply not the case.
“Covid-19 isn’t going away and we all need to do everything we can to prevent a second outbreak. Another wave of infection could be devastating and would require a second lockdown.
“Every individual, every family, every business and every service still have a role to play in stopping the spread of this virus. Please keep yourself, your friends and your family safe.”
Further information and updates from Bradford Council can be found here: www.bradford.gov.uk/news
