Covid update: Wales to move into level one

First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced that Wales will move into alert level one from Saturday 17^th July.

Mr Drakeford, said:

“The pandemic is not over and the virus continues to spread across Wales, which makes it really important for everyone to say yes to vaccination and to do everything we can to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

“Even though vaccines have weakened the link between the virus and hospitalisation, we are seeing young, fit people suffer from long-Covid, which, for some, has a major impact on their lives.

“We have the headroom to continue to gradually remove restrictions, but each and every one of us has a really important part to play to keep Wales safe as we head into the summer.”

What’s changed?

• Up to six people can meet indoors in private homes and holiday accommodation
• Organised indoor events can take place for up to 1,000 seated and up to 200 standing
• Limits on the numbers of people who can meet in outdoor public places or at events will be removed
• Outdoor premises and events will also have greater flexibility around physical distancing
• Ice rinks can re-open
• New rules for children’s residential activity centres so children in groups of up to 30 can visit
• A specific requirement for employees to provide comprehensive information on the risks and mitigations identified in the Covid risk assessment with their employees

In a break from England rules, masks will still be required by law in most indoor public places and on public transport, with the exception of hospitality settings.

The Welsh government will also publish plans for a new alert level zero with fewer legal restrictions.

To read the Coronavirus control plan for alert level 1, click here.