Scotland is moving beyond level zero from Monday 9 August. This means that most of the remaining legally imposed restrictions will be lifted. While some protective measures will stay in place, the legal requirement for physical distancing and limits on household gatherings will be removed, and all venues across Scotland will be able to re-open.

More information on the upcoming changes can be found here:

ScotGov guidance: https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-staying-safe-and-protecting-others/

Tourism/hospitality specific FAQs: https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-tourism-and-hospitality-sector-guidance/pages/frequently-asked-questions-faqs/

Face coverings rules: https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-public-use-of-face-coverings/pages/where-face-coverings-should-be-worn/

The most relevant updates in summary:

  • It will continue to be the law, subject to exceptions, that face coverings must be worn in indoor public places and on public transport.
  • Test & Protect will continue to contact-trace positive cases. To assist with this there will be a continued requirement for indoor hospitality and similar venues to collect the contact details of customers. Adults identified as close contacts of someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 will no longer be automatically required to self-isolate for 10 days from 9 August. Anyone who is double-vaccinated with at least two weeks passed since their second dose and who has no symptoms will be able to end self-isolation if they return a negative PCR test.
  • Travel restrictions may be re-imposed, as and when necessary, to restrict the spread of (local) outbreaks and protect against the risk of importation of new variants.
  • Capacity limits of 2,000 people indoors and 5,000 people outdoors will remain in place beyond August 9 although some exceptions may be possible on a case by case basis
  • Appropriate guidance will remain in place to assist individuals and businesses to reduce the risk of transmission as much as possible, such as rigorous hygiene, including regular hand washing.

Remaining protective measures will be reviewed on a three weekly basis to ensure they remain proportionate.

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