Lockdown roadmap: an update on the return of events

As you have undoubtedly heard, the UK now has the Government’s roadmap for coming out of lockdown. Finally, we have provisional dates for opening up our industry, as part of the four step plan outlined below, which is allowing us to cautiously begin planning for a fantastic Summer 2021!

Skiddle has instantly seen a dramatic increase in site traffic and ticket sales, following last night’s announcement. Consumer confidence is flooding back, so now is the time to get the events industry moving again.

Here are the four steps as outlined by the government and key points for event organisers:

Step 1 – From March 8th / March 29th

No current planned changes to current event restrictions.

Step 2 – From April 12th

Socially distanced events, held outdoors, could return. These would be table-based and include the appropriate rules for social mixing.

Step 3 – From May 17th

Reduced capacity events may be allowed to take place.

Indoor events at 50% capacity or 1,000 people – whichever is lower.

Outdoor events at 50% capacity or 4,000 people – whichever is lower.

Large seated outdoor venues at 25% capacity or 10,000 people – whichever is lower.

Step 4 – From June 21st – removal of social mixing restrictions

Nightclubs can reopen.

Festivals will be permitted to take place without contact restrictions.

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It is very important to bear in mind that this roadmap is provisional, and open to changes based on various factors, such as changing infection rates, vaccine rollouts, new covid variants.

There may be further restrictions specifically for event management, to be confirmed. These might include test and trace, door testing, vaccine certification. We’ll bring you these updates as they are announced during the coming weeks.

Don’t forget VAT for the Hospitality sector remains at the reduced rate of 5% till at least the end of March.

This is all perfect timing too as it coincides with the release of our brand new, mobile friendly Promotion Centre with an array of new features to assist you.

So what are you waiting for? Skiddle is ready, so get in touch and let us know what you have planned, or if you need any support.

Contact Promoter Support at promoters@skiddle.com

Contact Account Managers via direct email or am@skiddle.com

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About Skiddle

Skiddle is currently the UK’s biggest What’s On guide, providing a free facility for event promoters across the UK to list their events online and sell tickets through our independent ticketing service. We currently work with over 35,000 UK and European promoters, at over 30,000 venues. We specialise in helping events through that critical growing phase by providing the marketing and technology support that you need. Start listing your events today!