Hull city centre businesses and organisations are working together to create safe spaces for visitors and customers.
High street shops, department stores and shopping centres are set to be allowed to reopen on Monday 15 June as part of the Government’s three-stage plan to ease lockdown measures.
In anticipation of this, and also to support the essential businesses and retailers that have been allowed to operate during lockdown, Hull City Council has been working with partners to introduce social distancing measures and encourage visitors, customers and workers to follow public health advice.
Social distancing guidance on King Edward Street.
Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for economic investment and regeneration at Hull City Council, said: “Ensuring we do everything we can to keep our public spaces and businesses safe has been a collective effort.
“Since the very beginning of the crisis, officers at the council have been working with partners and businesses to ensure that we can provide the support that is needed both during lockdown, but also as measures are eased.
“Together we have been determined to provide the best platform possible for businesses to reopen responsibly, without compromising on public safety.”
Social distancing messaging is visible in public spaces throughout the city centre, on advertising boards, pavements, car parks and benches.
Businesses have been supplied with a tool kit that includes stickers and posters asking customers to remain at safe distance from each other, as well as encouraging them to use contactless payment where possible, listen to staff and queue responsibly.
Floor stickers have also been placed throughout the city centre.
Kathryn Shillito, Hull BID executive director, said: “The measures taken to promote social distancing and assist the public will undoubtedly serve city centre businesses well.
“Customers will wish to see both the council and business owners acting responsibly and that is why much effort has gone into providing visible reassurance that the city is a safe and welcoming place.
“Hull will be open for business very soon and things will be done a little differently, but it is important that everyone continues supporting city centre businesses.”
Find more for information on the added safety measures and guidance for some of the city’s shopping centres and arcades here.
A 10-step plan has been launched by Hull City Council to support businesses in the city trying to return to work safely and recover from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
Find out more on the council’s Invest Hull website.
