Salisbury Business Improvement District

Salisbury’s shop start to reopen

15th June 2020

From today (15th June 2020), non-essential retailers are permitted to reopen following the coronavirus lockdown.

Many shops in Salisbury will be reopening today, and more will open in the coming days and weeks.

Whilst food and drink businesses aren’t permitted to open for customers to eat-in yet, lots of these eateries in Salisbury are open for take-aways. Sadly, we have to wait a little longer until we can dine in, and for the leisure industry, including hair and beauty salons, to reopen.

A list of open businesses can be found here (Salisbury BID levy payers within the ring road only).

Salisbury BID is calling on the local community to do their bit to support the city. The BID has launched a #ShopSalisbury campaign to encourage and remind the community of the importance of shopping locally.

As part of the campaign, #ShopSalisbury messages have popped up in shop windows across the city.

Susi Mason, Salisbury BID Director and owner of Casa Fina, said: “On behalf of businesses in Salisbury, we’re asking the local community for their support. Now more than ever, we really need the people of Salisbury to shop locally.

“When you next shop online, please think twice; could you buy this locally? Many businesses are offering click and collect and delivery services. Your help will make all the difference. Without this support from local people, businesses might be forced to close their doors permanently.

“It’s a very challenging time, and we want to thank the public in advance for being patient and respecting the COVID Secure safety measures shops have put in place to protect staff and customers.

“We’re really looking forward to welcoming people back, and on behalf of the city, thank you for shopping in Salisbury!”

Before reopening, shops have to ensure they meet the COVID Secure guidelines, which includes completing the COVID risk assessment and implementing a number of social distancing measures. Government guidance for shops can be found here.

To help stop the spread of coronavirus, as well as the 2m social distancing rules and regular hand washing guidance, the Salisbury community is also being asked to:

• Refrain from shopping in large groups
• Avoid touching items unnecessarily in shops
• Use contactless payment where possible
• Pay for parking using the MiPermit parking app
• Avoid blocking pavements and entrances to other shops when queuing
• Remember social distancing applies indoors and outdoors

There are some areas of the city where it will be impossible to keep a 2m distance, especially as queues form outside shops, but the Salisbury community is being asked to be cooperative, understanding and kind as the business community do their best to adapt to the new ways.

Social distancing pavement stickers have been installed across Salisbury city centre to provide the public with guidance and reassurance. It’s hoped the stickers will remind people to keep a safe distance from others, so everyone can have a safe and pleasant experience when visiting the city centre.