Business leaders in Dumfries and Galloway are “cautiously optimistic” over the long-awaited reopening of the region’s economy.
With retail, beauty salons and gyms amongst those set to welcome the public for the first time since Christmas Eve, residents are expected to flock back to the high street.
The post-lockdown return to trading has been welcomed by Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce.
Spokesman Lee Medd told the Standard: “It’s a start and that’s the important thing. It’s a start that’s there and we can try to get back on the road to normality.
“Businesses have got measures in place and they are ready to welcome customers back in a safe manner that’s comfortable for customers.”
But there are concerns over provision in some sectors, including hard-hit hospitality businesses.
Mr Medd added: “Hospitality is where the problem is, the social distancing requirements and the amount of lost space in hospitality will be a big, big issue and we are keeping pressure on the government to look again at it. It is not going to work for lots of businesses.”
But he said business leaders hope the worst is over.
“I’m optimistically hopeful that we are not going to take any steps backwards”, he said. “The public will be eager to get back out there and I would encourage them continue to be sensible, wear masks, sanitise and pay heed to the measures businesses have in place.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced in February that non-essential retail, beauty salons, gyms and hospitality venues could begin to welcome customers back from April 26.
But restricted opening times are still in place for hospitality.
Non-essential travel between Scotland and the rest of the UK will also be permitted for the first time this year.
She has also indicated a June 7 date for reduction to level one if conditions allow.
