AN organisation representing Tavistock traders is leading discussions on how to retain social distancing in Tavistock when the shops reopen from June 1.

Tavistock BID (Business Improvement District) is setting up a working party with West Devon Borough Council and Tavistock Town Council to consider how to ensure people keep a distance of two metres from each other. Stewards might be employed in the town centre to help manage pinch points.

Shop staff will also have to implement social distancing, likely to be even more challenging than in supermarkets, and consider how people can still use changing rooms while maintaining social distancing.

Janna Sanders, manager of Tavistock BID, said: ‘The BID has already initiated discussions around the opening of the town centre and is in the process of creating a working group with WDBC and the town council on how to steer the reopening in terms of managing social distancing in the town, queuing outside businesses, one way systems, the use of public spaces and safe seating.

‘We will also look at potential hot spots or pinch points and how best to manage those and also consider the need for stewarding within the town centre.’

BID Tavistock is also also considering how to help businesses bounce back and promote themselves using cash put aside by the Government for BIDs nationwide. ‘We expect to receive about £4,000 which will go towards our recovery plan,’ said Mrs Sanders.