Jubilee Post News & Views
Special Desk
Music lovers can soon get live music sessions in Wales, the Welsh government has confirmed stating live performances could begin again. Venues will need risk assessments in line with hospitality and performing guidance.
The change but does not apply to nightclubs. For live performances organizers will need to limit groups to a maximum of six people from six households, use one-way systems and follow ventilation guidelines.
The change brings music performances in line with restaurants and theatres, which were able to open earlier in May. The announcement applies to music venues, bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants and licensed premises.
Further activities, such as events and festivals, will be considered in the next review. Tickets for the Green Man festival sold out in 18 minutes when they went on sale earlier this month, despite organisers making it clear it may not go ahead.
UK Hospitality chief executive Kate Nichols said venues that could have a seated audience would be able to socially distance people. “However, for many small venues it will simply be impossible for them to manage this with social distancing in place,” she added.
“And for our nightclubs, it’s just impossible to operate. We do need to see the rest of the roadmap for our Welsh businesses too. “Until we get that final bit of the jigsaw – the social distancing lifted – to be able to allow these businesses to return to profitability, then we’re not at the end of the road yet for the sector.”
Katie Hall, the lead singer of Chroma, said she was “elated” and it was a “step in the right direction” with the band unable to play any gigs since before the pandemic.
