Beer gardens reopen in Scotland

Scots have been urged to avoid complacency as beer gardens and pavement cafes reopen across the country today.

Customers will be required to leave their names and contact telephone numbers with the business, while also logging the time of their visit, as part of attempts to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Announcing the move, the First Minister said: “No beer garden or cafe should feel the same as it did before.”

The two-metre distancing rule still is still in place, though the Scottish Government is expected to release new guidance this week on how the distance could be reduced, where necessary, to allow other businesses to reopen. 

While some hospitality businesses with outdoor space will reopen today, indoor pubs and restaurants could reopen on July 15 if ministers proceed to loosen restrictions.

Nicola Sturgeon said: “The sacrifices made by the public have suppressed this virus, protected our health service and ultimately saved lives, and I know those sacrifices have not always been easy.

“I hope that as we take these first gradual steps out of lockdown people will begin to feel more of the sense of normality that we have worked so hard for – although it is important to remember that the virus has not gone away so we cannot get complacent.

“No beer garden or cafe should feel the same as it did before.”

She added: “If you don’t see those safety measures [Scottish Government guidelines], or you don’t feel you can follow appropriate hygiene rules, than don’t take the risk.

“If we continue to stick to the rules we will be able to drive the virus down further and live less restricted lives in the weeks and months ahead.

“Until then support local businesses if you can, socialise safely and make sure that while you enjoy yourself you also protect others.”