Venues across Sefton are facing staffing shortages as owners say "covid has put people off working in hospitality".
Business owner Luciano Cappiello, 52, who owns Formby restaurants Sorrento and Riva, has witnessed the impact of the pandemic first hand.
He has been unable to open Riva due to its small size meaning social distancing rules cannot be met until more restrictions ease.
He told the ECHO: "With the fact that we [Riva] haven't got the seating capacity to cover the overheads and also we have a staff shortage at the moment.
"Covid has put people off working in hospitality because all my colleagues are struggling to find staff, myself as well."
With the end of restriction almost in sight, the 52-year-old is hoping to open the bar as soon as possible.
Southport Football Club is also looking to the next step in the roadmap and welcoming fans back.
Director of Southport FC Ian Kyle told the ECHO: "Next season cannot start without the reassurance that fans can and will be back for the foreseeable future.
"We are gearing up for our preseason friendlies on the basis that we will have fans, we have selected the opponents on the basis we will have fans and in light of the events of last season, we can't trust them [National League] with regards to alternative funding."
The club, largely run by volunteers, is hoping to welcome back Sandgrounders from next month and is relying on restrictions being eased.
One venue in the heart of Churchtown that is looking forward to hosting large events again is Meols Hall.
The team at Meols Hall has been desperate to welcome people back for weddings and parties.
A spokesperson told the ECHO: "Meols Hall is very much looking forward to welcoming all our couples who have patiently waited for such a long time to get married.
"Some of them have changed their wedding dates four times and they are so excited to be finally getting married and to celebrate with family and friends after being apart for so long.
"We cannot wait to see our Tithe Barn and Courtyard become alive again and decorated for a wedding. We will be able to welcome all the guests for such a wonderful occasion and fill the air with happiness."
