The Executive Director of Public Health for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Teresa Owen, has waned that although lockdown measures are starting to ease across Wales, COVID-19 is still a ‘significant risk’ which continues to challenge us all.

The First Minister today confirmed the conditions in Wales allow the requirement to stay local to be removed from Monday.

Changes are also being made to the coronavirus regulations to allow families to be reunited from Monday as the concept of extended households is introduced. This will enable people in 2 separate households to join together to form one exclusive extended household.

In a statement released this evening, Teresa Owen said: “Though we’re encouraged by the reducing numbers of cases, COVID-19 is still circulating in communities across North Wales, and we must continue to follow Welsh Government guidance to protect ourselves, our families, friends and communities.

“It’s important that as we gradually take steps to return to a more familiar way of living, we don’t forget about the measures which are in place to keep us all safe.

“Everyone has a role to play in keeping North Wales safe. We need everyone to continue their support by following advice on social distancing, limiting contact with people outside of their extended household, and following guidance on hand hygiene and reducing the risk of spreading infections.”

Under the new arrangements, from Monday 6 July:

  • The legal requirement to stay local (and the associated guidance about the 5-mile rule of thumb) no longer applies.
  • There will be no limitation on travel but holiday accommodation in Wales will not be allowed to be open – self-contained accommodation is preparing to re-open from 11 July.
  • People from 2 separate households will be able to join together to form one exclusive, extended household. But they can only be part of one extended household.
  • Everyone joining the extended household must belong to the two households, which form the extended household.
  • The extended household must contain the same individuals for the foreseeable future.
  • If one member of an extended household develops symptoms of coronavirus, the entire extended household should self-isolate, not just those living together.
  • Welsh Government advise those in an extended household to keep records to help with contact tracing in case someone in the extended households tests positive for coronavirus.

At the next review on 9 July, the Welsh Government will consider a range of specific options for re-opening the hospitality sector (bars and restaurants) outdoors from 13 July, self-contained holiday accommodation from 11 July and hairdressing by appointment.