Covid lockdown: As Edinburgh re-opens, we can all do our bit by buying local – Angus Robertson

Congratulations to businesses across the capital and the country that have re-opened after the four-month Covid lockdown.

Queues and happy customers are a testament to the relief felt by many about going out once again, as we begin to see the light at the end of the coronavirus tunnel.

It has been a hugely difficult time for businesses and staff to manage through the lockdown and everyone hopes that the vaccine roll-out and continuing safety measures will mean we will not need to return to such tough restrictions.

In Scotland, we have been in a level four lockdown since just after Christmas with all non-essential retail, leisure and hospitality facilities closed. Now most shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes, gyms and swimming polls have opened up.

Together with the easing of travel restrictions for non-essential reasons, people are able to experience the new normal of the post-lockdown period.

Yesterday I took the chance to go out for dinner at the fantastic Contini restaurant on George Street. And today I’m looking forward to getting out to some of my favourite places, such as Toppings bookshop on Blenheim Place, Twelve Triangles bakery in Dalry and Woods barbers on the Southside for a long-needed haircut.

It is going to be essential to support our local businesses that are opening up after the lockdown. While it has been a godsend to be able to order things online in recent months, we should use our re-opened neighbourhood shops, restaurants, cafes and local services. Let’s support local business.

People queue for the Zara clothes shop in Edinburgh, after lockdown restrictions were eased (Picture: Conor Riordan/PA Wire)

Angus Robertson is SNP candidate for Edinburgh Central

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.