Why some of Sunderland's biggest pubs have chosen not to reopen on Saturday, July 4

Some of Sunderland city centre’s most well-known pubs have announced they will not be reopening on Saturday, July 4.
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Last week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave the green light for businesses such as hotels, bars and restaurants to reopen as lockdown restrictions are gradually relaxed.

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However, ttonic, Chaplins, The Point, Glitter Ball and Arizona, which are all operated by the same management team, have announced they will not be following suit due to concerns over safety for their customers and staff.

Chaplins in Stockton Road will not be reopening on July 4Chaplins in Stockton Road will not be reopening on July 4
Chaplins in Stockton Road will not be reopening on July 4

A statement on their social media platforms reads: “After the Government announcement that the Hospitality Industry may open on Saturday 04th July under strict restrictions there is an excitement in the air.

“We have been working hard getting our venue up to speed with all the safety measures in place including reviewing the capacity and what our customer journey will look like.

“Today we are sad to announce we are concerned that the mass gatherings and intensity expected on Saturday isn’t worth putting our team under unnecessary risk and stress. Our safety, your safety and to protect the emergency services from unnecessary duress we think is paramount and the responsible thing to do in our much loved city.

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“We will not be opening until further notice and remain closed this weekend. Please understand our decision for now, we must protect our staff and the people in our city.

ttonic on Vine Place is one of the city centre's most popular pubsttonic on Vine Place is one of the city centre's most popular pubs
ttonic on Vine Place is one of the city centre's most popular pubs

“Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause for your weekend plans we hope everyone stays alert, safe and practices social distancing as outlined by the Government. Please watch our Facebook pages for updates soon.”

The move by the management team has been met with many positive comments, with people concerned over whether the restrictions have been lifted too soon.

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Other pubs in the city, however, will be opening on July 4 in line with Government guidance including Poetic License where staff have created a new beer garden and have ramped up safety measures.

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