Businesses and venues in Perth and Kinross have breathed a sigh of the relief as the region looks towards ‘Freedom Day’.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon this week unveiled a new road map to ease COVID restrictions in the coming weeks.
The region will remain in level one until July 19 when it is hoped the region will move to level zero.
And August 9 could see all but a few restrictions lifted as the vaccine programme continues.
That could see full crowds back at McDiarmid Park to cheer on double cup-winning St Johnstone, theatres full, gigs back on and nightspots open.
However, basic measures such as mask wearing and hygiene will still be in place.
Ms Sturgeon said that although cases were continuing to rise, the vaccine was having an impact on hospitalisations and deaths.
The news has been warmly welcomed by business leaders, including Perth Chamber of Commerce.
Chief executive Vicki Unite said: “Our members have been saying all along that the most important thing was a route map out of COVID, with clearly defined dates that would enable them to plan ahead and set the wheels in motion.
“With rising case numbers, we understand too the requirement to resist calls for a carte blanche opening up of all businesses, but it is more important than ever that the government continues to offer immediate financial support for those who need it most.
“We are all looking forward to doing what we do best and going as far and as fast as we can towards full throttle from August 9.”
The news has also been welcomed by Horsecross Arts, the body that manages Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre.
Chief executive Nick Williams said it gave the sector a “much clearer pathway to prepare for reopening”.
He added: “We feel that our specific needs have been listened to after much lobbying by us and colleagues across the sector.
“As we have maintained throughout the pandemic, the procedures we have in place to keep audiences, staff and artists safe in our venues are second to none. We have excellent ventilation systems, well in excess of recommended levels, and rigorous cleaning and sanitation regimes; these will continue even with restrictions lifted, providing enhanced peace of mind to everyone who visits.
“We’re already planning some exciting summer entertainment for Perth. We can move towards the full reopening of Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre – and look forward to updating people in due course.”
Announcing the measures on Tuesday, Ms Sturgeon said: “The move beyond level zero will be a major milestone and will signal a return to almost complete normality in our day-to-day lives.”
