Positive news for Burnley town centre trade as lockdown restrictions eased

The manager of Burnley's Charter Walk Shopping Centre has praised the town's shoppers for returning in significant numbers following the easing of lockdown restrictions this week.
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Monday marked the day when shops selling "non-essential" items could reopen as the Government eased restrictions imposed at the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

And Charter Walk manager Debbie Hernon told the Burnley Express that footfall in the town centre was already 60% of what was expected under normal trading conditions.

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She also explained how some social distancing restrictions have had to be put in place, including asking shoppers to "keep left" and only enter the shopping centre from certain locations.

St James's Street, BurnleySt James's Street, Burnley
St James's Street, Burnley

Debbie said: "Trading exceeded expectations and our retailers were delighted with footfall already about 60% of what it was prior to lockdown. It's been really positive.

"The last few weeks have been a very difficult time for our traders and we need to support them if we want to see them remain on the high street.

"Customers respected social distancing and our one way system keep left worked well and customers are now starting to settle into the new routine. We have had to manage capacity in the shopping centre and have closed some entrances.

"There is a very pleasant vibe in the centre showing customers are glad to be back out shopping, there is definitely support for our local businesses."

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