Member Article

Flintshire businesses prepare to reopen with COVID safe measures

With further lockdown restrictions easing this week and outdoor hospitality reopening towards the end of April, some Flintshire residents may be anxious about how safe they will be when out and about.

But businesses across the county are reassuring the public that they have gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of everyone once their doors open again.

Many have adapted throughout the pandemic to make sure that the government guidelines are followed such as implementing social distancing measures and using PPE.

Being safe as indoor and outdoor mixing is allowed again is a top concern for individuals and families, with many businesses anxious to see whether changes in consumer behaviour impacts sales as lockdown eases.

Anthony Griffiths, manager of the 17th century Crown Inn in Lixwm, said: “We are all set to reopen later this month and looking forward to welcoming people again.

“Lockdown has given us the time to take a step back and look at what needs changing to keep people safe. We want to assure everyone that your wellbeing is our priority.

“We’ve maximised on the pub’s archways and placed extra tables underneath so that we can space out customers better and avoid turning people away due to lack of seating.

“We’ll also encourage customers to use the hand sanitisers installed throughout the pub, QR codes for track and trace and the one-way system to follow social distancing.

“Once we’re allowed to open indoors, we will also cap capacity at 30 rather than 50, which will assist with social distancing.”

Prior to the pandemic, the Crown Inn held an anniversary barbecue music event, with proceeds going to charity as well as quiz nights on a Tuesday.

Anthony is hopeful that he and his staff will be able to re-launch events to raise money for charity as well as provide entertainment in the coming months.

He added: “The quiz nights were really popular and were often the catalyst for friends and family meeting up.

“During the last 12 months, we have tried to support the community as well as show them they can trust us with their health and wellbeing.

“For example, we set up a shop in the pub where we sold bread and milk as well as sausage and bacon from Kennedy’s butchers in Holywell. Customers have been able to see first-hand how we can implement covid measures to keep them safe.

“The shop has proved vital for some so we’re going to continue with this after lockdown.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sam Harris .