Salisbury Business Improvement District

Salisbury businesses thank the community for support

22nd June 2020

One week after non-essential retailers were permitted to reopen, Salisbury’s shops are reporting a strong first week of trading and are thanking the community for their support.

Before reopening, shops must implement the COVID Secure guidance in order to protect customers and staff. Hand sanitiser is readily available, pavement stickers remind visitors to keep a distance, clear signage guide shoppers and some of the larger stores have staff on the door to welcome shoppers and advise them of their protocols.

Whilst the majority of shops have reopened, some shops remain closed for now and many are operating at reduced hours. Salisbury BID has explained the reasons why some shops remain closed here.

If shopping for something specific, the BID is encouraging shoppers to check opening times of shops before visiting to avoid any disappointment. A list of open businesses can be found here.

The city centre’s footfall counters reported a 52% increase in footfall compared to the previous week, with Saturday (20th June) being the busiest day.

Susi Mason, Salisbury BID Director and owner of Casa Fina, said: “It’s been heart-warming to see so many loyal customers and local people coming out to support the city this week. Everyone seems to be grateful to be able to shop and are embracing the slower pace of life.

“People have been really kind and understanding of the social distancing measures we’ve had to put in place and the new ways of working.

“I’ve had a strong start in my shop and have now extended my opening hours. I hope we see more shops reopening and trading hours getting back to normal soon.

“On behalf of Salisbury’s businesses, I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has supported the city so far and please do continue to make the effort to shop locally so our city can being to recover – we can’t do it without the community’s support.”

Cllr Jeremy Nettle, Leader of Salisbury City Council, said: “It’s been a pleasure to walk around the city this week and see so many people shopping with local businesses and enjoying time in our outside spaces. The atmosphere has been very pleasant, and I’m delighted to see people are following the social distancing measures. With the weather set to be sunny this week, I’d like to encourage more people to come and enjoy some shopping and time in the city.”

Public toilets in the city centre have now reopened, but toilets in the parks remain closed until further notice.

  • Market Place
  • Central Car Park
  • Millstream Coach Park
  • Old George Mall

Following a trial on 16th May, Salisbury Charter Market is open every Tuesday and Saturday from 8am until 3pm with more than 40 traders filling the Market Place. Social distancing measures are in place.

Salisbury Cathedral also reopened last week for private prayer and contemplation. Entry is via the North Porch and a one-way system is in place.

If travelling into Salisbury by bus, Salisbury Reds is reminding passengers that face coverings is now mandatory on all public transport and you may be refused travel without one. You can find out how to wear and make a face covering here.

Food and drink businesses remain open as takeaways only. Hairdressers, beauty salons and other leisure and hospitality businesses remain closed and are waiting for a reopening date to be set by government.