BUSINESSES across Tynedale have reacted to the Government’s roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions.

Matt Cawood, owner of the Boatside Inn, Warden, said he was pleasantly surprised that the government rules have allowed outdoor hospitality to open on April 12 as he didn’t anticipate the rules allowing pubs and restaurants to open at all until May.

“We are looking forward to making the most of our outdoor space and hoping we can enjoy some spring sunshine,” he said.

“I am hoping that the timetable will work as planned.

“We have all got something to aim towards now.”

Gemma Cheesman, owner of Capelli Hair Design in Corbridge, said she is looking forward to hairdressers being allowed to open.

Hairdressers are set to return on April 12 at the earliest.

“I do feel quite safe”, said Gemma. “I am looking forward to getting back to normal whilst keeping everyone safe at the same time.

“It’s been really tough, we have had help but that just covers your overheads but it’s not been the best.”

Gemma said her phone is “going ballistic” with messages from clients, but said the hair salon is not taking appointments just yet and wants to wait until the date is more definite.

Hospitality owners across the county were pleased to have a date to work towards but were taking a cautious approach to reopening.

David Harding, who runs the Crown Inn, in Humshaugh, said: “Now there is a bit more clarity, but it is still a little bit of a grey area.

Owner of Vercelli Restaurant and the Greenhead Hotel Jordan Dodwell agreed, saying: “I am pleased there are dates to work towards. I can’t get too excited as it could quite easily get pushed back, which would be gutting.”

James Ramsbotham, chief executive of North East England Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is helpful the Government has begun to set out the direction of travel for lifting current restrictions. There is now an urgent need for a corresponding roadmap specifically for businesses.

“They must have detail on how they will be supported to come out of lockdown measures.

“I understand it is important for people’s well-being to be able to meet up socially in the coming weeks but I would argue it is also extremely important that our economy is supported to get back on track.”