Roadmap leads to short-term pain for long-term gain for hoteliers Hoteliers in Bristol say the government’s roadmap to recovery will lead to more short-term pain for their businesses – but will hopefully result in long-term gain. Prime Minister Boris Johnson unveiled his plan for what he described as a ‘cautious but irreversible’ road map, providing a ‘one-way road to freedom’ but with hotels being unable to re-open until 17 May at the earliest. While hoteliers in Bristol are disappointed at not being able to open earlier – something they say they are ready for – they welcome the Government’s commitment to do everything possible to avoid any further lockdowns.
He said: “We are ready to open now. Since we have to endure this short-term pain for long-term gain, we are looking to Rishi Sunak to ensure hotels get all the support they need, and we would like to hear from him before he delivers his budget next week. “One of the most difficult things about the end of last year is that restrictions were lifted, many hotels started to re-stock and plan events, as well as organise adequate staffing, only to be placed under lockdown again. “If the Government’s roadmap strategy means that, when we are allowed to open again, there will be a much lower risk of their being another lockdown, then in the long-term this will be much better. “At least it gives us time to prepare properly, and I hope that it also means we will be able to open without any restrictions, except for sensible social distancing.
Raphael Herzog, Chair of the Bristol Hoteliers Association, said: “Once again, our plea for hotels to be treated fairly and equally “As we’re unable to open until May 17 at the to the likes of non-essential shops has been earliest, it’s even more important that the ignored. Government provides us with the support we need to ensure our businesses survive. “We have invested significantly in making From that date it seems we will be able to our premises as Covid-safe as possible; it have weddings and conference but restricted is safer to stay in a hotel having a drink at a number, hopefully wedding will be bigger than table, with dinner served, than it is visiting a two households . shopping mall or a grocery store. “It’s safer for people to socialise in Covid-secure hotels and restaurants rather than have parties in their flats, houses or gardens.”
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