BBPA: North East curfew a significant blow to pub sector

The latest lockdown restrictions in parts of the North East are a “significant blow” to the sector, the British Beer and Pub Association has said.

Following the news yesterday that tighter restrictions were set to come into force in the likes of Northumberland, Newcastle and Gateshead, the trade body warned that with consumer confidence already low, the latest measures were guaranteed to hamper recovery.

The restrictions, which are to be introduced today in response to a rise in coronavirus cases, will include a 10pm curfew for hospitality businesses, table-service only and a ban on mixing between households.

Emma McClarkin, BBPA CEO said: “Our sector has been one of the hardest and longest hit by the pandemic. Pubs and brewers have worked tirelessly to get pubs safely open and stocked since July so this latest announcement is another significant blow.

“Consumer confidence is already very fragile and extra restrictions will inevitably have a further cooling effect on that not only in the regions where they are in effect, but also nationally.

“As an industry we recognise the need to continue to support the government and local communities in managing the risk of rising infection rates. We take our responsibilities extremely seriously and our pubs will continue to adhere strictly to Government guidance ensuring that they remain a safe and welcoming place for socialising.”

Following the local restrictions, it has been suggested that new national rules – a “circuit break” – could be announced next week.

No final decisions have been made, but it is understood that nationwide restrictions could include a temporary closure of pubs and restaurants, or an enforced curfew as has already happened in the North East.