More support as Fife town centres emerge from lockdown

Fife Council is preparing to support town centres across the region as they emerge from lockdown.

With restrictions easing and more retailers and businesses working on re-opening their doors, the local authority is rolling out a package of measures of help.

These include signage and markings to help with queuing and physical distancing on footpaths and in shopping precincts. Changes will include limits on numbers in shops at any one time, queues outside, and the possibility of some businesses making more use of outdoor space.

The council will also monitor the situation as shoppers return after more than three months of lockdown.

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Councillor. Altany Craik, convener of the economy, tourism, strategic planning and transportation committee, said: “Many residents have missed their local space, and are looking forward to seeing people face-to-face, shop and spend their time in their local town centre. We’d like to reassure local people that we’re working with businesses to keep local people, staff and our communities safe.

“Whilst our towns may look and feel a bit different, we are all looking forward to a return of some sort of normality, bringing vibrancy back to the town and boosting our local economy. “

He said businesses had done “an amazing job” to make sure they could re-open safely, and urged people to support them.

He added: “Some businesses have already adapted by going online, offering click and collect or delivering services door-to-door.

“We’d like to thank Fifers for their patience, for spending local and staying safe by following the guidelines. It is important we all keep a safe distance from others, washing or sanitise our hands regularly and walk or cycle, if that is possible,” he said.

The council is hoping that volunteers will also be on hand over coming weeks to provide advice and support to visitors – they will be keeping a particular eye out for any visitors who might need a bit of extra help.

When travelling to and from town centres, the local authority ir urging Fifers to walk, cycle or wheel to the High Street, and only use public transport if they have no other options.

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