Reopening our high streets
The Government have announced a roadmap for the lifting of restrictions across England
There are a number of key dates that business owners and shoppers need to be aware of.
​
From 12th April 2021 - we expect non-essential retail, hair and beauty, libraries and gyms to be able to re-open their doors to visitors. Also on this date, hospitality businesses including cafes and restaurants will be able to welcome outdoor customers on a table service only basis.
​
From 17th May 2021 - we expect most remaining high street businesses to re-open, with hospitality businesses being able to serve customers inside their premises. Restrictions are likely to remain on the number of households and size of groups that can congregate.
​
From 21st June 2021 - we expect other restrictions to be lifted, which should see nightclubs re-open and all restrictions on the number of households and group sizes removed.
​
Please note these dates are subject to change based on Government monitoring of the rate of COVID infections. Businesses and shoppers should always consult the Government website (linked below) for the latest information on COVID regulations.
​
Covid-19 Roadmap 2021
The latest information on grants available to high street businesses to support their re-opening:
#HelpEssexBuyLocal
#HelpEssexBuyLocal was set up by Rural Community Council of Essex to support the many food and drink producers based in Essex and to raise awareness of the locally grown produce available.
Hard-pressed businesses across the economy will receive fresh support from the new £5 billion Restart Grants scheme from 1st April.
Our town centres are changing
To keep you safe out town centres now have helpful information to keep you, your staff and your customers safe.
​
Rochford District Council is committed to supporting local businesses in our town centres and shopping parades to reopen in a way that is both safe for customers and staff in terms of social distancing and hygiene, whilst helping to spread the word that our fantastic town centres and shops are back and open for business!
Advice for Shoppers
-
Do not travel to the high street if you have any COVID symptoms
-
Maintain a 2 metre distance from those outside your household
-
Follow signs and instructions provided on the street and in stores wherever possible
-
Practice safe queuing by not joining queues where it would block the footway
-
Avoid touching stock you do not intend to buy
-
Use digital means of payment where available
-
Wear a face covering if using public transport
-
Consider bringing your own face coverings and hand gel with you to the high street
As our high streets begin to re-open in phases, we are encouraging our residents to support local businesses by shopping locally and safely. We will be putting up signage to encourage visitors to our high streets to shop and travel safely and are actively exploring physical changes to the high streets to make it easier for our residents to shop with confidence. We will keep this website and our social media channels up to date as our plans and advice develops over the coming days and weeks.
Parking
Rochford District Council have recommenced enforcement measures in the Council’s pay and display car parks from Monday 1 June, 2020. Please ensure you purchase a PayByPhone session or a ticket.
While the purchase of a ticket using cash will be possible, it is strongly advised that the PayByPhone payment option is used to avoid queuing and contact with coins and the ticket machines.
If you haven’t already registered, full information is displayed on the machines and noticeboards. To save time, please register on-line before your visit at https://paybyphone.co.uk/
If you don’t have a Smartphone, you can still use the service by calling 0330 400 7275 and follow the prompts to enter your details and complete the payment. If you would prefer to text send REG followed by a space and then your vehicle registration number in a text message to 65565 and you will be called back to complete the payment.
Customers are reminded to follow the Government’s social distancing advice at all times in the car parks.
The Council continues to provide free car parking for NHS staff and social care workers until further notice. If you are one of these workers, please display supporting official evidence on the windscreen of your vehicle.
