The boss of one Broad Street’s leading bars has described how the new tier two safety restrictions are making life difficult for the hospitality sector.
Karina Sparks, general manager at Coyote Ugly explained that the government’s latest rules mean that pubs and bars can only serve customers from the same households.
This comes on top existing rules that all venues must close their doors early at 10pm, operate via table service only, insist on customers wearing face masks until seated, and get them to pay by card where possible.
Speaking on a new Westside video filmed by Jas Sansi, Ms Sparks says: “The biggest problem with the new restrictions is the footfall, because if there’s no footfall there is no money.”
Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, explained that this the harsh reality that many other hospitality venues are currently facing, and urged the government for more financial support to help them through such a challenging period.
Mr Olley said: “It’s crucial that hospitality businesses get proper financial assistance from the government to help them through this unprecedented challenge that is no fault of their own.
“Without government support, a lot of businesses face a very hard road ahead, and many could be forced to close.”
By Luisa Huggins
