Coronavirus in Scotland: Nicola Sturgeon confirms restrictions on border travel will lift next week

Travel across Scotland’s border will be permitted from next week, the First Minister has confirmed.

The current restrictions on travel between Scotland, England and Wales will lift on Monday, 26 April, according to Nicola Sturgeon who gave a coronavirus briefing on Tuesday.

Travel restrictions to and from Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man will also be lifted from Monday next week.

During the briefing Ms Sturgeon said: “I can confirm the old remaining travel restrictions will be lifted on 26 April for travel anywhere in Scotland and for travel between Scotland, England and Wales. So, from Monday, you can travel anywhere across Britain for any purpose.”

'Welcome to Scotland' sign at the border between England and Scotland.

She added: “People should check the rules in each of these territories before you travel.”

The First Minister said local travel restrictions may be reintroduced in areas “from time to time” if communities see a rise in Covid-19 cases.

Further announcements made in the coronavirus briefing included confirmation of beer gardens, cafes, shops, libraries, museums and gyms reopening in Scotland on Monday when the country will move from Level 4 to Level 3.

Hospitality will need to close at 8pm indoors and 10pm outdoors, with alcohol only allowed to be served outside.

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Funerals and weddings – including post-funeral events and receptions – will be allowed to take place with up to 50 people, but no alcohol may be served.

Other changes include the resumption of driving lessons and tests.

Ms Sturgeon also confirmed further lockdown easing is due to take place on May 17, with Scotland planning to move to Level 2 of its restrictions, and to Level 1 on June 7.

Moving the nation to Level 0 is planned for the end of June.

Confirmation of the latest restrictions easing came as the Scottish Government confirmed two new Covid-19-related deaths and 178 new positive tests in the past 24 hours.

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