Sunday trading rules to be relaxed in Flintshire to assist key workers

Sunday trading rules in Flintshire are set to be relaxed to help food stores provide essentials for key workers during the coronavirus crisis.

Flintshire Council said the legislation would be suspended for the duration of the emergency situation and would also assist the vulnerable and the wider community.

Currently, large shops like supermarkets can only open for six consecutive hours on Sundays between 10am and 6pm.

But this will no longer be enforced by council officers and means that trade can start two hours earlier if stores decide to take advantage of the change.

A spokesperson for the local authority said: “The additional trading hours will make it easier for key workers, such as medical staff, care workers, emergency service workers and waste collection crews to do their food shopping.

“The measure will also allow more time in the day for shops to manage their customers’ visits, as many are already doing, so they adhere to government advice on social distancing and behaviour.

“All stores affected by this measure will receive appropriate advice and guidance from council officers.”

Residents are advised to check local store opening times before they travel as staffing and other issues may prevent them trading longer.

By Liam Randall – Local Democracy Reporter