The Prime Minister has confirmed that coronavirus restrictions will be eased as planned on the 12th of April.
This is fantastic news for Orpington's local businesses. From next Monday, pubs and restaurants can serve outside and shops, gyms and hairdressers can reopen.
They’ve put measures in place so you can safely shop, have a pint, a haircut, or a meal with confidence. So as they reopen, let's rally behind them to help our community bounce back and protect jobs.
We are only able to ease restrictions now because of your sacrifices. By following the lockdown rules, we’ve drastically slowed the spread of the virus locally to less than 20 cases per 100,000 people.
With more than 45,000 people across the Orpington constituency vaccinated with their first jab, our community is increasingly protected from the virus.
But we cannot be complacent, and that’s why we must cautiously reopen and gradually restore normality. As the restrictions ease, it’s important we all continue to follow the rules to keep the virus at bay and get a vaccine when offered.
One in three people do not experience any symptoms and may be spreading the virus unwittingly. From the 9th of April, everyone will be able to take two free rapid coronavirus tests a week. This will be key to keeping Orpington open and I encourage everyone to take part.
Let’s make this the last lockdown. Let’s follow the rules, get tested and vaccinated. And let’s support our local businesses and enjoy Spring, responsibly and safely.
