Gwynedd Council is thanking the county’s businesses as they start welcoming customers back following the easing of lockdown.

Over the past few weeks, all kinds of businesses across Gwynedd have been preparing by putting measures in place that enable them to trade in a way that will keep their staff and customers safe.

Cllr Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for the Economy, said: “The past few months have undoubtedly been the most challenging time for businesses across the country.

“I would like to sincerely thank all Gwynedd businesses for their responsible and caring attitude throughout the lockdown period, and for their efforts to support and keep our communities safe.

“We are thankful to those businesses who have put our communities ahead of their personal interests by stopping trading for a period of time. It is also a source of pride to see numerous examples of local businesses that have been innovative and changed their activity and practices to continue to serve our residents.

“With the Welsh Government now easing restrictions, we are now moving into a new phase - but a time that is, in many ways, even more challenging.

“As a Council, we will continue to work constructively with Gwynedd businesses and communities to support each other throughout the next period in order to safeguard the health of the people of Gwynedd alongside supporting businesses and the local economy.

“Our message to Gwynedd businesses is simple and unequivocal - we are here to support them to re-open and trade safely. Our officers will work hard to ensure that businesses have access to all the latest information and advice to help them adapt and restore their activities.”

Coronavirus is still in our communities, so when reopening the Council is asking businesses to: Continue social distancing and ensure that employees and customers can do so; continue to wash hands and make sure staff and customers do so; continue to keep safe - carefully plan and prepare when re-opening to ensure the safety of themselves, their employees and the communities of Gwynedd.

The latest information for Gwynedd businesses including posters that they can be display at their premises can be viewed at www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/businessCOVID19 .