More businesses and shops across the Bath area are having to close their doors for at least the next three weeks, as the government imposes stricter rules to help stop the spread of coronavirus.
In an announcement to the country yesterday evening, Monday 23rd March, Prime Minister Boris Johnson explained that the closure of non-essential premises was “critical” to stop the disease spreading between households.
All non-essential businesses and premises must now shut, aside from the following exceptions:
- Supermarkets and other food shops
- Health shops
- Pharmacies including non-dispensing pharmacies
- Petrol stations
- Bicycle shops
- Home and hardware shops
- Laundrettes and dry cleaners
- Garages
- Car rentals
- Pet shops
- Corner shops
- Newsagents
- Post offices
- Banks
People have been told to only leave their house for the following reasons:
- Shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible
- One form of exercise a day – for example a run, walk, or cycle – alone or with members of your household
- Any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person
- Travelling to and from work, but only where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.
For those who do not follow the new rules, which will be in place for at least three weeks, the police will have powers to enforce them, including through fines and dispersing gatherings.
The government has said takeaway and delivery facilities should remain open and operational.
Businesses which run an online service and can deliver are still being allowed to trade.