Watch more of our videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276

A large number of businesses across Falkirk district are re-opening this week as lockdown restrictions start to ease.

Phase II of the Scottish Government’s route map of recovery from coronavirus means that from yesterday (Monday) many shops are able to resume trading, while estate agents can begin viewings as the property market kicks back in.

Factories and warehouses can get back to operations, while the first marriage ceremonies and civil partnerships will be allowed to take place outdoors with limited numbers, and registration offices will reopen for essential business by appointment only.

Some traders have re-opened in the town centre, but those non-essential retailers in The Howgate remain closed for now.

It’s the most significant step forward yet since Scotland went into lockdown in March, but businesses re-starting will have to ensure they adhere to social distancing, and keep limits on the numbers of customers in their premises at any one time to help keep both customers and staff safe.

Many retailers across the district opened their doors to welcome shoppers back yesterday and others are set to follow suit as the week goes on.

Not all shops can re-open. Only those with outdoor exits and entrances are included in Phase II, which means shopping centres like The Howgate will remain closed, except where they contain essential shops.

However, the changes on the restrictions has allowed some town centre shops to open again, as well as the majority of those at Central Retail Park.

Nearly all the stores at Central Retail Park in Falkirk have opened again.

To help create a safe environment for all, the Scottish Government has joined forces with the Scottish Retail Consortium to create a five-point plan which it urges everyone to follow.

It includes:

Queue considerate

Maintain social distancing

Follow instructions inside and outside shops

Follow all necessary hygiene measures

Be respectful to shop staff

As well as the retailers with access from the street, outdoor markets can now re-open, along with outdoor playgrounds, but non-essential offices and call centres must remain closed.

The Scottish Government has urged employers to arrange staggered work times for their staff, agree flexible working where possible, and ensure that it is safe for their employees to get to work.

Falkirk district businesses start to re-open as restriction ease