Speaking about the news that the government was to allow some businesses to re-open following an easement to the lockdown measures, Wakefield Civic Society President Kevin Trickett MBE said:
“Wakefield Civic Society welcomes the gradual easing of the lockdown conditions. We need to see Wakefield opening for business once again – but it must be done in such a way that ensures people can go about that business in a way that is safe and low risk. Yes, it will be good for people to be able to get out and about again, but we must not jeopardise people’s health and safety, otherwise the last two months will have been for nothing. Too many people have suffered, and died, because of this awful virus. Let’s not forget that as we slowly start to ease back into something approaching normal.
“Of course, opening shops is only part of the story. Many of the businesses in the catering and hospitality trade, such as hotels, bars and restaurants, will remain closed for now; similarly our cultural venues such as galleries, cinemas and theatres are some way off returning to ‘business as usual’. We have great sympathy for those businesses that can for now only look at the calendar and wonder when they too will be able to resume operation, but we have to adopt a safety-first approach and we urge the government to continue offering financial support wherever it is needed. These businesses and cultural organisations have helped to make our town and city centres great places in which to relax and to enjoy life with our families and friends. In the fulness of time, we need them to bounce back, to resume where they left off, and to bring back joyfulness and richness to our lives.
“Until that time comes, we congratulate those business and cultural organisations that have found innovative ways to keep going in one way or another, whether it be offering goods and services on-line, delivery and takeaway services, or providing entertainment through their websites and social media outlets.”