Many people have been asking whether stores such as B&Q and The Range will be allowed to remain open during the upcoming lockdown in England because advice from the government doesn’t make it clear if hardware stores can remain open. Well, we now have an answer with B&Q stating that they will be keeping stores open in England.

A statement from B&Q said:

 “As an essential retailer, our stores across the UK and Ireland will remain open, with strong controls and strict social distancing measures in place.” 

The following shops are expected to remain open during the lockdown:

Supermarkets

Newsagents

Off-licenses

Post Offices

Garden centres

Petrol stations

Pet shops

Pharmacies and health shops

Takeaways and food deliveries

Medical services such as dentists/opticians

Hotels, hostels and other accommodation – but only for those who have to travel for work purposes

Food banks and shelters

The following shops are expected to close during the lockdown:

Clothing shops

Footwear shops

Vehicle showrooms

Travel agents

Betting shops

Auction houses

Tailors

Tobacco shops

Vape shops

Hospitality and leisure facilities such as:

Restaurants

Bars

Pubs

Bowling alleys

Leisure centres

Water and theme parks

Gyms

Swimming pools

Golf courses and driving ranges

Dance studios

Stables and riding centres

Soft play facilities

Climbing walls and climbing centres

Theatres

Concert halls

Cinemas

Museums and galleries

Casinos

Adult gaming centres and arcades

Bingo halls

Botanical gardens

Zoos and other animal attractions

Personal care facilities such as:

Hair, beauty and nail salons

Tattoo parlours

Spas

Massage parlours

Body and skin piercing services

Tanning salons