How Sunderland restaurants are preparing for change in the rules as Government caps gatherings at six people

Sunderland restaurants are looking at how to keep customers safe but fed after the Government announced new restrictions on how many people can gather at one time.
By Fiona Thompson
Published 9th Sep 2020, 16:58 BST
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They, along with pubs, parks and homes, are covered by the revised rules, which will come into force on Monday, September 14.

It means anyone meeting in a group of more than six people could face a fine of £100 if they break the rule, with that fine doubling for each repeat offence up to £3,200.

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Exceptions cover groups where the household or support bubble is larger than six, or for work or education purposes, as well as weddings, funerals and Covid-secure sports, with the Government announcing the drop from 30 to make it easier for the police to identify and disperse illegal gatherings.

Sambuca, on the banks of the River Wear, D'Aqua in John Street and The Palm have all said they are taking measures to keep people safe during the pandemic. Photos by Google/JPI Media.Sambuca, on the banks of the River Wear, D'Aqua in John Street and The Palm have all said they are taking measures to keep people safe during the pandemic. Photos by Google/JPI Media.
Sambuca, on the banks of the River Wear, D'Aqua in John Street and The Palm have all said they are taking measures to keep people safe during the pandemic. Photos by Google/JPI Media.
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Among the businesses looking at the new rules is The Palm, on Timber Beach Road in South Hylton, which offered reassurances to customers.

It added: “We hope all of our guests are remaining safe and well and we thank you for your continued support.”

Meanwhile Italian Kitchen, in Southwick, said it has not been contacted by the Test and Trace scheme and is open as normal.

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It added: “There may have been confusion with businesses with similar names in the area being closed over the last few weeks.

"Obviously there is nothing to say we won’t be contacted in the future but rest assured we will inform you immediately if this situation occurs here at Italian Kitchen.”

Sambuca, in Low Street, has confirmed it will close on Tuesday, September 15, for refurbishment work and for additional cleaning before reopening at noon the next day.

It said: “To ensure our teams’ safety as well as our customers’ and to keep everyone’s minds at ease, we will be conducting a very thorough deep cleaning apart from our daily cleaning routine.”

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D’Aqua, in John Street, said it has put measures in place to keep people safe and to ensure customers will have an enjoyable visit.

It added: “Please, please, please though, if you are showing any symptoms, please cancel your booking.

"We will completely understand and respect you for it.”

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Related topics:GovernmentSunderlandSouthwick