Boris Johnson Unveils Roadmap to End Lockdown – Dates and Rules Revealed
Boris Johnson has laid out a clear plan to lift lockdown, but it all hinges on four key tests: vaccine rollout, vaccine effectiveness in reducing hospitalisations and deaths, infection rates, and new variants. The government will move forward in five-week steps, giving at least four weeks to gather and assess vital data before easing restrictions.
March 8: Pupils Back to School & Two-Household Outdoor Meetups Allowed
- Schools and colleges reopen for face-to-face lessons.
- University students requiring practical or on-site work can return to campuses.
- Two people from different households can meet outside.
March 29: Rule of Six Returns Outdoors & Sports Restart
- Up to six people from different households can meet outdoors, including private gardens.
- Two households may gather together even if more than six people in total.
- Outdoor sports like golf, football, and tennis can resume.
April 12: Shops, Gyms, Beauty Services & Holidays Kick Off
- Non-essential retail, gyms, and beauty salons reopen.
- Domestic holiday lets resume for household groups.
- Pubs and outdoor dining return with no ‘substantial meal’ rule for alcohol.
- Zoos, theme parks, and public libraries open for visitors.
- A review on international travel will be published.
May 17: Indoor Gatherings & Hospitality Fully Reopen
- Indoor socialising allowed for six people or two households.
- Pubs, restaurants, and bars open indoors.
- Theatres, cinemas, and sports stadiums reopen with social distancing and capacity limits.
June 21: Final Review on Social Distancing & Club Reopenings
Plans to scrap social distancing and legal limits on social contact will be reviewed. High-risk venues like nightclubs may reopen if it’s safe.
“It’s been such a tough start to the year and I know we’re all eager to get our lives back to normal as soon as it’s safe to do so,” said Caroline. “I’m delighted that based on the four tests the PM has set out, including the continuation of the successful vaccine rollout and monitoring any new variants, we will see our society and economy reopen over the next few months. Most importantly, we should soon be able to see those we love.”
Vaccine Numbers & Effectiveness
The PM announced the government aims to offer every adult in the UK a jab by the end of July. Already, one in three adults have received their first dose.
New data shows the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine cuts hospitalisations by 75% after just one dose and helps prevent deaths. The Oxford/AstraZeneca jab also offers strong protection, though more data is needed on its overall effectiveness.
