Elsecar’s Independent Shops and Studios to reopen from Monday 15 June

Elsecar’s Independent Shops and Studios to reopen from Monday 15 June

The shops, studios and workshops at Elsecar Heritage Centre will begin a phased reopening from Monday 15 June.

Following government advice on the reopening of non-essential retail, the shop owners have been working hard to ensure they are ready for visitors to return.

Safety measures will be in place across the centre, including social distancing, a keep-left system, directional signage, managing capacity inside shops, reduced opening hours, no queue policy in areas and take-away only for cafes. Visitors will not be permitted to consume food and drink anywhere in the centre as per government guidelines. Cashless payments will also be encouraged, and where this isn’t possible, customers will be encouraged to have the correct change ready.

Visitors will be encouraged to shop alone and adhere to the strict social distancing in place. Shopping visits should be carried out as quickly as possible with browsing time kept to a minimum.

There will be no toilet facilities or seating areas available.

The visitor centre remains closed, as does Playmania and Elsecar Heritage Railway, and Elsecar’s very popular guided tours will not be resuming yet.

Cllr Tim Cheetham, Cabinet Spokesperson for Place, said: “Elsecar is an important and unique shopping destination, with many independent retailers all offering a range of quality goods and services. We would like to offer shoppers a warm welcome back and want to reassure people that all possible measures have been put in place to ensure the wellbeing of those visiting. Although the retail offer will be reopened the Visitor Centre will remain closed but looks forward to welcoming people back to discover the fascinating history of the village in the future.”

For details about the individual shop and café opening times visit www.elsecar-heritage.com or alternatively contact individual businesses.