NEWPORT city centre was deserted this Friday evening, marking the start of new coronavirus restrictions on the hospitality sector.
Earlier, pubs served their last pints for the foreseeable future, as a Wales-wide alcohol ban came into force.
They – like bars, restaurants and cafes – also had to shut their doors at 6pm, in line with the new rules. Until further notice, these hospitality venues can only serve food and soft drinks on their premises between the hours of 6am and 6pm.
The Welsh Government said the restrictions and the booze ban would help cut the number of coronavirus infections, on the basis that people who have been drinking are more likely to struggle with the public health rules.
READ MORE:
- Wales' new coronavirus rules for pubs and restuarants: All you need to know
- As booze ban begins in Wales, thousands in Gwent sign petition opposing move
- 'Like Christmas Eve': How Newport looked on the night before restrictions
At the new 6pm closing time on Friday, you could be forgiven for thinking it was the early hours of the morning, as people poured out of city centre pubs in high spirits and made their way home.
By 8pm, however, the city centre was deserted – the restaurants in John Frost Square and the usual nightlife hotspots around High Street and Bridge Street had fallen silent, with no guarantee when late-night revellers will next be seen on the streets.
This was the last chance for pubgoers in Wales to enjoy a drink at their local.
A few people were out walking, or hurrying along as the drizzle worsened. And there were several delivery drivers waiting outside those restaurants that will continue to run takeaway services.
The Welsh Government will review the restrictions before December 17, and decide if a change is to be made.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel