COUNCIL bosses have launched a roadmap of how to get the district back in business as the lockdown is gradually lifted.

Maldon District Council has put together an action plan to ensure businesses are able to safely welcome customers back, following the guidance that all non-essential retailers can open from next Monday.

The ‘webinar’, put together by the council’s environmental health team, offers advice about opening in a safe and sustainable way to employers, staff and the self-employed working in the retail and services sector.

The hospitality sector will remain closed for the time being under government guidelines.

Council leader Adrian Fluker said: “Covid-19 has impacted everyone and has been particularly challenging for businesses who have had to cease trading during lockdown.

“We are pleased to be working with the support of high street businesses to enable them to reopen safely in line with the latest government guidance and welcome customers back to their premises from June 15.

“However, the safe reopening of our high streets relies on the help from visitors who should follow the guidance set out in each shop and follow the social distancing signage in the high streets.”

The blueprint outlines eight areas which businesses should consider before reopening, including, the essential function of the business, whether they can deliver services online, staff levels, vulnerable workers, adapting premises, cleaning regimes, PPE and whether any services can be suspended.

The council says the ideas have been discussed with high street businesses and town and parish councils.

It has also outlined advice on encouraging social distancing by controlling the amount of customers in the premises, adapting shop floors and using contactless payments.

A team of volunteers will gather data on footfall at key High Street access points to ensure the reopening of local businesses can be managed safely and successfully.

The council is adding signage to pavements throughout Maldon and other parts of the district to ensure social distancing can be maintained.

The council is also in talks with Essex County Council to ensure the safety of visitors and to help businesses reopen.

For more information go to maldon.gov.uk.