Dates set for re-opening of Lancaster district play areas and Williamson Park cafe

Play areas run by Lancaster City Council have been closed to the public since lockdown began in March.

Williamson Park Cafe will re-open on Monday July 6, alongside toilet facilities in the park.

The city council also announced it would be re-opening Lancaster's Charter Market this Saturday, June 27, in a new temporary location within Dalton Square.Pubs, hotels, restaurants (some of which you can find HERE), hairdressers, campsites, museums, galleries and other services, can all now open from July 4 following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

But in terms of museums, Lancaster City Council said that its priority was dealing with the aftermath and impact of Covid-19 on residents and businesses.

A spokeswoman said: "Despite the government announcements, the council’s priority continues to be dealing with the aftermath and impact of Covid-19 on our residents and businesses.

"Many of the staff who would normally work in our venues are still needed to support the needs our residents and businesses following the emergency and support recovery.

"Decisions to re-open venues and services are therefore dependent on the level of support that is needed for communities, businesses and delivery of vital services (eg waste collection)."

The government has also indicated it would be passing legislation to make it easier for venues to make better use of their outside spaces.

A Lancaster City Council spokeswoman added: "Once we have received more information from the Government on the new legislation, we will be able to establish what is required by the council and its partners (including BIDs and police), to help businesses comply with the legislation and how it can be enforced to ensure they can continue to operate safely."