First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirms easing of travel and outdoor meeting coronavirus restrictions
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First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today confirmed the Highlands and the rest of Scotland is still on course for the wider reopening of businesses from April 26.
Speaking at a briefing at noon in Holyrood she said that the retail and hospitality sectors would be able to reopen from that date.
She said that pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés would all be able to reopen outdoor areas, and on a limited basis indoors and shops would also be able to fully reopen from Monday, April 26. However, she added: "We do still need to be cautious."
In addition she said Covid-19 restrictions on travel and meeting others in public would be further eased from Friday – which was sooner than previously announced.
Ms Sturgeon said Scotland had made significant progress in reducing the number of cases which was thanks to the sacrifices made by all in following the various restrictions.
She said: "So many people have stuck to the rules over the past months."
Ms Sturgeon said bringing forward the changes to restrictions relating to travel and meeting others outdoors would also boost people's mental health and well-being.
From Friday the advice will change from staying local to being able to travel anywhere in Scotland as well as up to six people from up to six households will be able to meet outdoors – up from four people from two households.
Ahead of today's briefing the First Minister had tweeted that she would confirm we were "firmly on track for substantial re-opening of the economy on April 26".
The next stage for the easing of restrictions will be May 17, when Scots should be able to mix in others' homes – with four from two households allowed to begin with.
Highland Council convener and local councillor Bill Lobban said: "Today’s announcement by the First Minister to remove some travel restrictions is very welcome indeed – especially for those of us who have been unable to see family from out with the area for such a long time.
"The slow and careful return to more normal activities and allowing our economy to reopen is good news but we must remain vigilant and stick to the rules that have allowed the programmed relaxation to take place.
"It's still all down to us so get the vaccine when offered and stay safe."
