Are garden centres open in lockdown?
ENGLAND was plunged into a third national lockdown on January 5 to help limit the spread of coronavirus yet again.
But with Spring approaching, what does this mean for Brits keen to brighten up their gardens?
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Are garden centres staying open in lockdown?
Garden centres are allowed to remain open during the third national coronavirus lockdown.
After being forced to close during the first lockdown in March 2020, they have been open since May, including during the second shutdown in November.
Garden centres are among the essential shops allowed to remain open for business, but indoor botanical gardens have been told to close.
Why are they staying open?
Garden centres are allowed to stay open after the Government deemed them as "essential retail".
The Government says this is because centres provide Brits with essential goods and services.
A statement on the website says "essential retail such as food shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, garden centres, building merchants and suppliers of building products and off-licences" can remain open during England's third lockdown.
How will social distancing work?
Garden centres, like many other facilities have adapted to social distancing measures.
As a result of their big open air spaces, people are expected to be able to maintain distancing rules, including staying two metres apart from those not in your household.
Some centres have a one-way system in place for customers.
Perspex screens have been placed around tills. Also, face masks are being worn at all times, by staff and customers.
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Can I still buy plants and garden materials online?
Online retailers have continued to sell plants and garden materials throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Places including B&Q remain open during the third lockdown where you can order online before either getting home delivery or using its click and collect service.
Customers who purchase products online for delivery may face delays in their items reaching them.