As Wales’ COVID case rate continues to fall, its first minister, Mark Drakeford, has confirmed indoor hospitality can reopen from 17 May – in line with similar rules in England and Scotland. Mr Drakeford said extra funding will also be made available for hospitality businesses still affected by COVID restrictions to “support firms and safeguard jobs”.
Businesses in Wales still affected by coronavirus restrictions will be able to claim up to £25,000 more in support to help meet ongoing costs. This latest support package will help those businesses, which remain affected by restrictions, to meet ongoing costs through to the end of June as they prepare for re-opening and more normal trading conditions. Businesses that stand to benefit include:
- nightclubs and late entertainment venues
- events and conference venues not covered by the Welsh Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund (CRF)
- hospitality and leisure businesses, including restaurants, pubs and cafes
- supply chain business, which have been materially impacted by restrictions