Anglesey pubs told they have ‘vital role’ to play in preventing spread of coronavirus

The role of pubs, bars and restaurants in preventing the spread of Covid-19 has been reiterated by Anglesey Council as the opening of indoor settings nears.

With many licensed premises having opened beer gardens since July 13, August 3 is expected to see the indoor reopening of  pubs, cafes, restaurants.

But following a positive case at an island pub earlier this month, the authority has published a series of key principles aimed towards containing any potential spread.

These include:

• Social distancing (2 metres) should be adhered to at all times.
• Pre-booking a visit or table is recommended. Walk-ups allowed subject to provision of names and contact details to facilitate Test, Trace, Protect in the event of a confirmed positive Coronavirus case.
• Set a maximum capacity for the premises – communicate and manage – for example, by setting dwell times.
• Table consumption only. Standing consumption only allowed at tall tables.
• Implement one way systems, where the building allows, and manage outside queues to ensure they do not cause a risk to individuals
• Thorough and regular cleaning of high contact touch points, toilets, tables etc. in line with a risk assessed cleaning regime.
• Ensure customers are fully aware of their responsibilities for observing social distancing and all Covid-19 safety measures – providing clear signage
• Encourage new ways of working, adapting shift patterns and menus to reduce interactivity and number of people working in kitchens at any one time.
• Taking all reasonable measures to maintain physical distancing in the workplace
• Work with Visit Wales to ensure that the Visitor Pledge is widely distributed and applied within the hospitality sector

Anglesey’s Chief Public Protection Officer, Les Pursglove said that Tafarn-y-Rhos in Rhostrehwfa had worked closely with the team after a customer, later believed to have the virus, drank there.

The pub closed voluntarily before a NHS test brought back a negative Coronavirus result.

Mr Pursglove said: “We recognise that this is an uncertain time for businesses in the hospitality sector and we want to support them as much as possible.

“However, they also play a vital role in helping us prevent the spread of Coronavirus and keeping Anglesey communities and Wales safe.

“We have already written to businesses providing information about the rules and regulations in place for pubs, bars and restaurants that have reopened outdoors; and reminded them of the steps they should now be implementing as a business and employer.”

Public Protection portfolio holder, Cllr Richard Dew, added: “The county council is keen to support businesses moving forward, and help with controlling and containing potential incidents immediately.”

“If a customer tests positive after visiting a premises on Anglesey, owners or managers are strongly advised to close the premises as soon as possible and contact Public Protection immediately for further advice and guidance.”

He added: “It’s vital that licensed premises adhere to the rules and regulations that are in place.

“Our Public Protection team is available to provide advice and guidance to ensure that every business conforms to the all-important regulations.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter