Most coronavirus restrictions to be lifted in Wales

Most coronavirus restrictions in Wales will come to an end this weekend, First Minister Mark Drakeford has confirmed.

From 6am on Saturday, August 7, all restrictions around meeting with other people will be lifted and all businesses will be able to open.

People who have received both coronavirus doses, as well as people aged under 18, will no longer need to self-isolate if they are a close contact of someone who tests positive for coronavirus.

However, anyone with coronavirus symptoms or who tests positive for the virus will still have to self-isolate for ten days.

Meanwhile, face coverings will still be required in most indoor places, such as in shops, healthcare settings and on public transport.

Businesses and workplaces will also need to carry out coronavirus risk assessments and continue to take measures to minimise the risk of catching coronavirus.

The First Minister said moving to Alert Level Zero is “another significant step forward for us all”.

He said: “For the first time since the pandemic started, all businesses will be able to open and all legal limits on meeting people in indoor private spaces will be removed.

“Alert Level Zero does not mean the end of restrictions and a free-for-all. But it does mean we can all enjoy more freedoms with the confidence there are still important protections in place to make sure our public health is being safeguarded while we are out and about.”

He added: “Unfortunately, the pandemic is not over yet and we all need to work together to do everything we can to keep this virus under control – at Alert Level Zero, everything we do will have an impact on this virus.

“Even if you have been fully vaccinated, meeting outside is safer than inside; let fresh air into indoor spaces, get tested even for mild symptoms, and self-isolate when you are required to do so.

“Continue to keep our distance when we are out and work from home whenever we can. Wear a face mask, especially in crowded places, on public transport, in shops and in health and social care settings.

“Taking responsibility and working together means we can all do the things we’ve missed the most. We’ve all got a reason to keep Wales safe.”

What does Alert Level Zero look like?

• There will be no legal limits on the number of people who can meet, including in private homes, public places or at events.
• Businesses which were required to close will be able to reopen, including nightclubs.
• Premises which are open to the public and workplaces will have more flexibility about which reasonable measures they can take to minimise the risk of coronavirus, but these should be tailored to their risk assessment and their specific circumstances.
• Face coverings will not be a legal requirement in hospitality settings where food and drink is served, but will continue to be required in most indoor public places.
• Fully-vaccinated adults, as well as under-18s, will no longer have to isolate if they come in contact with someone who tests positive for coronavirus.