YOU can tell businesses in Powys are ecstatic at the prospect of reopening tomorrow – when they create an online clock counting down the hours, minutes and seconds until they can open their doors once again.

Business owners throughout the county are eagerly anticipating Monday (April 12) as the latest barrier of lockdown restrictions is lifted in Wales. As well as a full return to school for all pupils and travel in and out of Wales for non-essential purposes being allowed, non-essential retailers are also allowed to welcome back customers into their premises again – from nail salons to beauticians, tattooists, sports and massage therapists, dress fitters, tailors and fashion designers.

As shop owners throughout Powys look forward to a landmark Monday morning – after more than three months spent under strict lockdown restrictions – one Montgomeryshire firm went to extreme measures to make sure they don’t waste one second once they’re able to reopen.

Llanerfyl-based Hamer Leisure Caravan Sales posted a link to a countdown timer on Sunday morning titled ‘Countdown to Tomorrow’ with an accompanying message on their Facebook page, saying: “How good does it feel, our wonderful friends and customers are back.”

Hamer Leisure Caravan Sales are specialist suppliers of used static caravans in the Mid Wales and Shropshire area. At the time of printing, there were a little under eight hours to wait, though we’re sure they won’t quite be ready to open just after midnight on Monday.

The excitement and anticipation ahead of Monday was sweeping social media throughout Powys, with a slew of businesses posting on their Facebook pages about how excited they are about reopening.

Clothing boutique Jazz Newtown said: “Looking forward to opening on Monday,” together with some of their bespoke products they’ll be able to offer customers face-to-face once again.

Llanymynech-based nail technician Claws By Donna posted: “It may kill me but I am so excited to get back out doing nails and seeing you lovely people.

“Those with appointments towards the end of the month if I look bedraggled, just go with it.” Donna’s post was accompanied by a picture with the words ‘JUST ONE MORE DAY’ printed capped up and on a bright pink background.

One of the places in Powys likely to be most busy this week is the stunning Elan Valley, and local - camping and caravan site Elan Oaks can’t wait to welcome back new tourists and old customers.

They posted on their Facebook page: “Covid-19 Update! We are very pleased to announce that from 12th April we can welcome ALL visitors to us.

“ALL our sites are open, BUT you MUST be self-contained due to Government restrictions and guidelines. You must be Self-Contained. No visitors allowed on site. Social Distancing Applies at ALL times. Our Facilities will be closed. Camping Field is Tents and up to 4 berth campers. (No caravans allowed)

“We look forward to welcoming you all and hope you enjoy your stay in the beautiful Elan Valley. From all at Elan Oaks.”

Another Llanymynech business, family-friendly Tanat Holiday Park said it had been a “long winter”.

“After a very long winter we look forward to welcoming our Tanat Holiday home owners back to the park tomorrow,” they said on Facebook.

Wendy Williams, of Abermule-based Natural Beauty Therapies, said: “Watch out, this girl's back out from tomorrow. Can’t wait to see you all.

“I am a fully certified massage and beauty therapist, home-based in Abermule, with several years’ experience.”

It may kill me lol 🤪 but I am so excited to get back out doing nails and seeing you lovely people 💋💋💋 Those with appointments towards the end of the month if I look bedraggled, just go with it 🤣🤣🤣

Posted by Claws By Donna on Sunday, 11 April 2021

 

So, what exactly is back open and fully operational from Monday?

*The full return of children to schools for face-to-face education, all post-16 learners will return to further education and training centres, and university campus’ will be able to open for blended face-to-face/online learning for all students

*All remaining shops will reopen, completing the phased reopening of non-essential retail

*All remaining close contact services will open, including mobile services

*Travel restrictions on traveling into and out of Wales will be lifted. However, restrictions on travel to countries outside the Common Travel Area without a reasonable excuse, remain in place. The Common Travel Area means the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland

*Wedding ‘show-arounds’ by appointment are allowed

*Restrictions on political canvassing are removed, subject to canvassers doing so safely

Pubs in England can welcome customers again on Monday in their beer gardens, with people allowed to meet in groups of either six or two households. Table service will be provided, substantial meals will no longer be required in order for customers to enjoy a drink and curfews have also been scrapped.

It's a different story in Wales, where outdoor hospitality is not due to restart until Monday, April 26.

Welsh further education and training centres will also reopen, while universities will be open for face-to-face and online learning.

Driving lessons can also resume in both England and Wales.