Between 60 and 70 per cent of businesses in Haringey have been able to reopen following the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions, according to the town hall’s economics chief.

Shops were allowed to reopen with extra safety measures in place on Monday, June 15, after being closed for more than two months due to the coronavirus lockdown.

Queue systems, traffic light systems and pavement extensions are among the measures rolled out by the council and businesses to allow shoppers to stay socially distanced.

Cabinet member for local investment and economic growth Cllr Gideon Bull (Labour, White Hart Lane) said: “The social distancing measures to extend pavements pinch points around the borough, to help residents to travel safely and support businesses reopening have been working well.

“As a result, we have seen that approximately 70 per cent of our businesses have been able to reopen in Wood Green and 60 per cent to reopen elsewhere in the borough.

“We are continually monitoring our social distancing measures and are speaking to local businesses, to find ways we can support them and make sure our high streets are safe for everyone.”

Haringey Council has set up a dedicated website for businesses to provide details of support and safety advice for local firms. It is available here: https://www.haringey.gov.uk/news-and-events/haringey-coronavirus-covid-19-updates/coronavirus-covid-19-business-update

The council is also encouraging businesses that may have missed out on previous financial support to apply for its discretionary grant fund. It is open for applications until midnight on Sunday, June 28, with more information available here: https://www.haringey.gov.uk/news-and-events/coronavirus-covid-19-haringey-together/latest-news-and-updates/covid-19-previous-updates-15-june#hdgf