Emergency health regulations came into force on Saturday, March 21. In Hastings, this means authorised officers from the borough and the county council have enforcement powers to enforce restrictions for social distancing and close premises - and similar regulations will apply in Rother District Council's area.
Obviously some will only apply where such businesses exist in the town or village or surrounding areas.
The following businesses must remain closed:
- Public houses
- Cinemas
- Theatres
- Nightclubs
- Bingo halls
- Concert halls
- Museums and galleries
- Casinos
- Betting shops
- Amusement arcades
- Spas
- Massage parlours
- Indoor skating rinks
- Indoor fitness studios, gyms, swimming pools or other indoor leisure centres
Additionally, the following must not sell food or drink for consumption on their premises:
- Restaurants, including restaurants and dining rooms in hotels or members clubs
- Bars, including bars in hotels or members’ clubs
- Cafes, including workplace canteens
The only exceptions being
- Cafés or canteens at a hospital, care home or school
- Prison and military canteens
- Services providing food or drink to the homeless
Takeaway and delivery facilities can remain open and operational. Delivery is better as it prevents groups of people gathering unnecessarily.
Colin Fitzgerald, Hastings lead councillor for environmental services said : "These restrictions are essential. Social distancing will help reduce the spread of the virus. This helps reduce pressure on local NHS staff and services, meaning people who become really ill with Covid-19 can get the care they need.
"If only 1% of our Hastings residents became seriously ill, we’d need to find 900 intensive care beds locally. Currently the Conquest Hospital has 11. We must all comply with the advice from government in relation to Covid-19, to protect both ourselves and others.
"We ask that businesses and venues covered by these regulations comply with them; otherwise they will be committing an offence. Please help us by doing your part to keep people safe, protect our NHS, and save people's lives."
Source: Hastings Borough Council
