Heathfield High Street has recently seen several stores reopen in the last week, Trading4U and the Heathfield Ironmongers are two of note. The newly published government list has now opened the way for many more to reopen after June 15th.
Shops will all be subject to social distancing rules and will incorporate protective measures to ensure staff and customer safety. Trying on clothes and trialing products will not be allowed. Shopping as we knew it will have changed beyong recognition, but an easing of restrictions will allow us all to get used to a ‘new normal’ and give businesses the opportunity to rebuild after the period of closures. It is important to remember that the relaxation of rules is dependant on the regular review by government of the infection rates and could be subject to change at any time.
So, you may shortly be able to pop into the betting shop, do some clothes shopping, check out the antiques shops and browse the charity shops.
The new list includes some outlets which are already open but many new ones which will be making a welcome return.
- Food retailers
- Takeaways
- Chemists
- Hardware/homeware stores
- Fashion shops
- Charity shops
- Betting shops and arcades
- Tailors, dress fitters and fashion designers
- Car dealerships
- Auction houses
- Antique stores
- Retail art galleries
- Photography studios
- Gift shops and retail spaces in theatres, museums, libraries, heritage sites and tourism sites
- Mobile phone stores
- Indoor and outdoor markets
- Craft fairs
- Similar types of retail
- Garden Centres
Several significant ommissions in the list are dentists, opticians, beauticians and hairdressers, many people will be eagerly looking forward to a time when they can safely return to these important services.