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Shop like your high street depends on it …

As COVID-19 restrictions ease and many local businesses reopen, residents are encouraged to support Weymouth’s independent shops, hospitality venues and other local businesses.

Following confirmation from the Prime Minister that the country can move to Step 2 of the roadmap, certain non-essential shops, businesses and services can now reopen. It includes: personal care premises, such as hairdressers; indoor leisure facilities, such as gyms and outdoor attractions, such as theme parks. Hospitality venues are now allowed to welcome customers in outdoor areas, with table service only.

Weymouth Town Council, Weymouth Area Development Trust (WADT) and We Are Weymouth are joining forces to support local businesses and residents’ safe return to the high street. The organisations are also encouraging local businesses to sign up to We’re Good To Go, a scheme which aims to support businesses in reopening and welcoming back customers safely.

Chris Wilson, Chief Executive of WADT and spokesperson for Totally Locally Weymouth said:

“We know many local businesses have been working extremely hard to get themselves ready to reopen and are excited to welcome back their customers.”

“We’ve seen our community pull together over the last year to achieve some amazing things and to support each other. We feel confident that we can come together to make reopening safe, successful and a real boost for the town.”

Dawn Rondeau, Chief Executive for We are Weymouth commented:

“We are lucky to have such a fantastic range of local, independent businesses in our town and we know this is a draw for visitors to the area too. It’s what separates us from other UK destinations, so it’s important we all try hard to keep what we have and support our local businesses.”

“Local people were incredibly supportive and excited to get back to their favourite shops and venues when the restrictions were eased last year, so we hope for more of the same as it becomes safe to do so.”

A spokesperson for Weymouth Town Council added:

“Despite huge efforts and the resourcefulness shown by many businesses over the last year, there’s no denying the pandemic has hit them hard. Businesses are really relying on the support of the community.”

“We’re a Purple Flag accredited town, which recognises Weymouth as a welcoming, safe place for everyone, with a broad appeal and mix of venues to choose from. The award itself is credit to our local organisations’ ability to work collaboratively in the common interest of the town, which is needed now more than ever.”