Community / Pubs among those back in trade as restrictions ease
PUBS were among the businesses reopening today (Wednesday) in Shetland as lockdown restrictions eased.
It was a sigh of relief for The Lounge in Lerwick, which had been shut since March.
Owner Philip Manson previously spoke about the financial impact coronavirus and lockdown has had on the pub.
The downstairs opened up at 11am and shortly before midday there was a gathering of folk – all having to remain seated – enjoying a drink.
Contact details were being taken at the door for any future tracing needs, while a one-way system and distancing/hygiene measures were also in place.
The two metre distance rule can be relaxed to one metre inside premises like pubs if additional measures are implemented.
The Dowry was also one of the early openers in Lerwick on Wednesday morning, with people allowed in from 10am.
Some pubs have already been able to serve alcohol in beer gardens.
It is not all good news for the local pub trade, however, with the Pierhead in Voe – which has been up for sale – confirming it will not reopen.
Other businesses able to reopen from today include indoor cafes, restaurants and hairdressers.
Shortly before midday there was a queue outside the Just Gents barbers on Hangcliff Lane in Lerwick.
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