Theatres, casinos and bowling alleys – What is next to reopen under lockdown?

Theatres, casinos and bowling alleys will be allowed to reopen in England from this weekend as the Government resumes its easing of lockdown restrictions.

From Saturday August 15 socially distanced audiences will be allowed back into indoor venues, while wedding receptions of up to 30 people will also be permitted.

Here is what will change in England:

From Saturday audiences will be able to return to indoor theatre performances and music venues in England, so long as they adhere to social distancing.

Under the new Government guidelines, such venues will have to operate at a reduced capacity and limit ticket sales to ensure distancing can be maintained inside.

Those on stage will also have to keep to social distancing rules.

– Are sports venues going to reopen?

The Government said it will resume plans to pilot a small number of sporting events in order to test the safe return of larger crowds.

This will begin with the final of the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre on Saturday and Sunday.

If venues are able to successfully keep fans socially distanced, sports arenas could reopen to supporters from October 1.

– What about weddings?

Ceremonies remain capped at no more than 30 people and should be kept “as short as reasonably possible”, the Government said.

– What will change for barbers and beauty salons?

However, workplaces must still remain Covid-19 secure, with regular cleaning and hand washing taking place.

– What else is going to reopen?

The Betting and Gaming Council has welcomed the move for England, but has urged Scotland and Wales to follow suit, claiming many casinos “are on the brink”.

Nightclubs, dance halls and sexual entertainment venues will remain closed.

– Wasn’t this due to happen earlier in August?

The lockdown restrictions were due to be eased on August 1, but a spike in coronavirus cases at the time resulted in them being paused for two weeks.