The UK’s third national lockdown is in full swing. But do the new restrictions affect motorway services? Here’s everything you need to know…
Motorway Services To Remain Open
As a consequence of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the UK has been placed into a third national lockdown; with the official advice from the government being to ‘stay home’. Nevertheless, as with previous lockdowns, motorway services will remain open – being classed as ‘essential’ services. According to service provider Welcome Break, this is because the industry “provides an essential service for critical drivers who need to be on the road and require a safe place to stop, rest and get fuel”. The government has been particularly keen to keep them open, allowing key and essential workers to access motorways unhindered. In fact, motorway services are required by law to offer fuel, toilet facilities and access to food and drinks. Nevertheless, motorists have been advised to ‘limit the time’ they spend at services.
A Few Things To Bear In Mind
Whilst motorway services will remain open throughout lockdown, there are a things to bear in mind. As with other public, indoor places you’ll be required to wear a face mask at all times except for when you’re seated. If a service area is offering seating areas, the NHS track and trace application should be in use; the relevant QR code should be prominently displayed throughout the services. You’ll also notice that many service stations have introduced one-way traffic systems and have made hand sanitisers available.
A few service providers have also made specific requests to their customers, too. For instance, Roadchef has warned that it may only be able to allow a certain number of customers onto its premises at one time. Welcome Break has announced that drive-thru establishments will still be serving customers, but that their seating areas will be closed. Finally, Moto has requested that customers pay via contactless or card if they’re able to. Ultimately, then, your time at service stations during lockdown may be a bit different to what you’re accustomed to. But you’ll still be able access toilets, get something to eat, refuel your vehicle or simply take a break,
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