Chamber president in call to 'back local business' in Sutton Coldfield

Indoor entertainment, events and hospitality businesses have all been given the green light to return from Monday under the next phase of the Government’s roadmap for lifting Covid-19 restrictions.

It will be the first time some firms have been able to trade for several months and Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce president Phil Arkinstall is encouraging people across the town to show their support in a safe, careful and considerate manner.

Mr Arkinstall, who is also the managing director of video production company Ark Media, said: “Confirmation from Government that Stage 3 of the roadmap will go ahead as planned on Monday is another welcome step and a really significant moment for the hospitality, events and tourism industries in particular.

“Businesses across Sutton Coldfield have been working incredibly hard to reopen after an extremely challenging period.

“The Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce sends its best wishes to those businesses who, from next week, are finally able to get back to what they do best.

“The Chamber will be doing its utmost to champion these businesses through our own network, our digital channels and by getting out and about safely over the coming weeks.

“I would encourage people across Sutton Coldfield to join us in supporting local businesses, while also being patient and respectful as business owners and their staff get to grips with operating under Covid-secure guidelines.”

Among those businesses reopening fully is the Belfry Hotel and Resort.

Chris Eigelaar, General Manager, said: "We are very excited to start welcoming leisure guests back to the resort on May 17.

"With our fantastic accommodation, world class facilities and golf courses, and all the amazing activities and attractions the region has to offer, we’re seeing high demand for stays.

“We look forward to opening our doors fully and a warm Belfry welcome awaits all our guests and visitors.”

Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council leader Simon Ward is also hoping the public get behind hospitality in the area.

Councillor Ward said: “I am actually in awe of the business hospitality across the town. The way they have knuckled down in an incredibly challenging climate has been inspiring.

“It’s been so hard for them financially and it’s difficult to run a business with just a few outside tables.

“But many have come up with innovative ways to keep going with takeaway services and other schemes.

“Going forward, with the lifting of restrictions, it’s good to see pubs and restaurants reopening and encouraging that new ones are coming such as the Giggling Squid at Mere Green.

“I hope there’s a bounce for them. One of the reasons we are looking at subsidised parking in the town centre is to try to support the hospitality industry in Sutton, moving forward.”

As part of lockdown measures being lifted, people will be able to meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors, while six people or two households can meet indoors.

People are also likely to be allowed to stay overnight with those not in their household or bubble.