To help pubs and bars reopen safely from 4 July and promote responsible drinking, the council is providing licensees with detailed advice and resources while lobbying Government for greater clarity.

As licensed premises reopen and to keep infection rates low we are supporting license holders and staff so that residents, businesses and visitors can once again safely and confidently enjoy York’s legendary hospitality.

While the Government prepares detailed guidance, we have published guidance at www.york.gov.uk/BusinessToolkit. This is complemented by a business recovery pack which includes social distancing floor stickers and safety advice posters. Businesses can register for a free pack, with many more resources available to download.   

The guidance offers advice to license holders who are welcoming customers back into the city, on how to make their businesses safe and compliant in the current situation. It includes additional information on current licensing requirements, noise and litter, environmental health and food safety.

It urges all licensees to remember that they are ambassadors for our city and, in accordance with their license, they must serve responsibly and encourage their customers to show respect for each other and everyone else in the city.”

Cllr Denise Craghill, executive member for housing and safer communities, said: “With licensed premises able to reopen and serve alcoholic drinks from 4 July, let’s be safe, welcoming and considerate about it.

“This is an important opportunity to show how, in York, whilst it’s great for people to enjoy our beautiful, historic city centre, we also expect people to drink responsibly and be considerate towards everyone including residents who live in the city centre.

“With social distancing two metres or one-metre plus with mitigation, certain premises can offer customers space inside. We are looking at options for businesses which cannot meet this guidance. We will notify the licensed trade and city centre users of these arrangements as soon as possible.

“I have written to the Home Secretary to request urgent and greater clarity about any changes to licensing arrangements. In the meantime, details of premises licences and what they allow can be found on our e-register at https://www.york.gov.uk/AlcoholLicensingRegister

Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said;

“We welcome the announcement that from 4 July more of our businesses will be able to reopen, if their premises can be made COVID secure. It has been wonderful to see life returning to the city as shops reopen, and we’re looking forward to seeing even more shops and services welcoming customers once again.

“It is clear that the spread of the virus has slowed in York due to the fantastic response of our communities, health services and other partners. We are continuing these recovery efforts with public-health right at the heart of our plans.

“We continue to work with York’s businesses and other organisations to support them in reopening safely, including new signage, promoting walking and cycling and offering some free car parking in July and August. Our business recovery toolkits are still available for businesses, places of worship, charities and community groups to download or order at www.york.gov.uk/BusinessToolkit.

“Until 4 July the current guidelines remain in place. Whilst much more of the city will be able to reopen in July we must continue our citywide effort to keep infection rates low. This will mean pioneering new approaches so residents and visitors can once again enjoy the city safely. Social distancing and washing your hands remain our best protection and are the most effective way to slow the spread of the virus - it is vital that we continue to see the number of infections fall in the city.”

Please be aware that Government guidelines may change. Licencees can find them at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/the-visitor-economy

For more information about support for business relating to coronavirus in York visit www.york.gov.uk/BusinessSupport