The roadmap out of lockdown detailed four steps in easing the English national restrictions from March 8th, with five-week long fire-breaks used between steps, to monitor any resulting spike in infections.
Below we break down each of those steps in graphics.
You can find out more on reopening businesses and venues in England, but the full 60 page document can be accessed here.
STEP 1 - FROM 8 MARCH
Summary
The return to primary and secondary schools of all children
Two people can meet outdoors socially, whilst observing social distancing
Care home residents can have one regular visitor provided they are tested and wear PPE
ADDTIONAL STEP 1 - FROM 29 MARCH
Outdoor social mixing of two households, or up to six separate individuals.
Outdoor team sports and the re-opening of golf courses and outdoor tennis courts.
People no longer asked to stay at home by law, but should stay local as much as possible
Continue to work from home where possible
Overseas travel remains banned, aside for a small number of reasons
STEP 2 - FROM 12 APRIL
Summary
The re-opening of all non-essential retail and personal care sectors
Pubs and restaurants open outdoors, customers must order, eat and drink while seated.
Indoor leisure like gyms and swimming pools open no indoor mixing between different households will be allowed.
Outdoor attractions including zoos and theme parks open
Self-contained accommodation, such as holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen.
Funerals attendees can be up to 30 people
Weddings, receptions and wakes rise to 15 people
STEP 3 - FROM 17 MAY
Summary
Indoors, the rule of 6 or 2 households will apply but there will be:_
The reopening of indoor hospitality, entertainment, cinemas and soft play areas,
Remaining accommodation sector
Indoor adult group sports and exercise classes will also reopen.
Up to 30 people to attend weddings, receptions, funerals, wakes,
International travel subject to restrictions
STEP 4 - FROM 21 JUNE
Summary
It is hoped all legal limits on social contact can be removed.
All remaining venues to open
Before proceeding to each step, the government will examine the data to assess the impact of previous easements.
This assessment will be based on four tests which are that:-
The vaccine deployment programme continues successfully.
Evidence shows vaccines are sufficiently effective in reducing hospitalisations and deaths in those vaccinated.
Infection rates do not risk a surge in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.
Assessment of the risks is not fundamentally changed by new Variants of Concern.
The four tests are currently being met so the first step will proceed from 8 March, at which point the top four priority cohorts for vaccinations - as determined by the independent JCVI - will have received a degree of immunity, three weeks after being offered their first dose.