Both Derby and Derbyshire are set to come under tier 3 restrictions following the end of the national lockdown on the 2nd December. The news will be concerning for residents and businesses alike, with particular apprehension for local businesses in the hospitality sector. Under the tier 3 restrictions, hospitality settings, including bars, pubs, cafes, and restaurants must close, except for permitted sales by takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through and delivery services.
The festive period traditionally presents opportunities for booming business in the sector, with the chance to attract new customers. Many businesses will however be facing bleaker prospects for this winter, with many concerned over their long-term commercial viability.
The UK’s hospitality sector employs over 3 million people and accounts for around 4% of the UK’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The latest local figures come from 2018 and show that the hospitality sector was worth around £591 million to the economies of Derby and Derbyshire.
Amanda Solloway, Member of Parliament for Derby North, has commented on the announcement of the restrictions and how this will affect hospitality businesses in Derby:
Amanda said
“Although the announcement of the restrictions was not unexpected, I understand the great deal of uncertainty that it will cause for the sector in Derby. This year has been a difficult one, unlike any other, and it has been tough for our pubs, bars, cafes, restaurants and hotels. These places are part of the core social fabric that makes up our communities.
I also understand the concerns that will be felt by many employers and employees in hospitality ahead of the upcoming winter months. The furlough scheme has helped protect jobs in the sector and the extension of the furlough scheme earlier this month until Spring next year will bring greater reassurances to many at this time. A number of eligible businesses that have been forced to close have also benefited from support grants administered by Derby City Council.
Under the tier 3 restrictions, takeaway and delivery services can still be carried out and I would encourage everyone to support our local businesses within the guidelines that have been set out whilst the restrictions are in place.
The restrictions have been necessary to keep us all safe, slow the spread of the virus and protect our invaluable NHS services. We all want to see Derby move out of tier 3 into the lower tiers as soon as possible and the tier system is set to be reviewed every 14 days. By following the guidelines, we can give ourselves the best chance of getting things back to normal.”