Coronavirus: Edinburgh seems to be reopening from lockdown safely and with a smile – Angus Robertson

People are returning to Edinburgh’s shoppers and tourists are returning while observing social distancing, wearing face masks and using hand sanitiser, writes Angus Robertson

Shops are open once again and customers are most observing the safety proceedures designed to stop the spread of coronavirus (Picture: LIsa Ferguson)

Big thank you to everyone helping Edinburgh re-open safely from the lockdown.

Like many other residents I took a walk up town last weekend to see how the city is returning to new normal.

Judging by the queues to get into John Lewis and other shops throughout the centre of Edinburgh people are pleased to be back.

Customers seemed happy to observe social distancing, wear face-masks and regularly use hand sanitiser.

Restaurants were having to turn away visitors without bookings while guests seated outside looked pleased to get a seat and be able to enjoy food and drink in the summer sun.

Staff returning to work across the city have put in a shift to get their businesses in shape to fulfil the public health requirements. It can’t be easy to manage the new circumstances, but it is being done with good grace, humour and patience.

It may be a longer time until everything returns largely to the way it was before.

Already, however, there is plenty evidence of visitors coming to Edinburgh from elsewhere in the country for a staycation.

Hopefully with the cautious public health approach of the Scottish Government and a vigilant public reducing the risks of second outbreaks we can help safeguard jobs and the economy get back on their feet.

Edinburgh is opening up and we should support our local businesses across the city.

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