Further changes to lockdown rules from today

From 15th August the following will be allowed to resume providing they adhere to all relevant Covid safety guidelines:

  • Indoor theatre, music and performance venues will be able to reopen with socially distanced audiences.
  • The piloting of spectators at sporting events will resume, with a limited number of fans expected to be allowed to watch the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre over the weekend.
  • Casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and soft play centres will be allowed to reopen.
  • “Close contact” beauty services such as facials, eyebrow threading and eyelash treatments will resume.
  • Wedding receptions for up to 30 guests will be permitted.
  • Pilots will take place at conference venues ahead of the expected resumption of business events from October 1 at the earliest.

All the details about what the current rules are: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do

At the same time the penalties for not following guidelines are increasing – you can now be fined up £100 if you refuse to wear a face covering in places where you are required to(this is most indoor public places) and this doubles if you are fined again up to a maximum of £3,200.  Some people are exempt from wearing face coverings and you can find full information about where a face covering is required and who is exempt here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

There is also planned to be a clampdown on illegal large gatherings, with extra police patrols and organisers can be fined up to £10,000.