What to expect if you’re shopping in Lincoln this weekend

Waiting in long queues, limits to people allowed in store and strict social distancing are just some of things to expect if you’re planning a shopping trip this weekend.

When lockdown first started, shopping was permitted for essentials only.

A new set of coronavirus rules which came into force on May 13 has seen the gradual reopening of garden centres and home stores to the wider public in the county too.

Here’s how some businesses in Lincoln have been enforcing safety measures for shoppers and staff this week:

Whisby Garden Centre

Whisby Garden Centre during lockdown. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

The measures in place at Whisby Garden Centre during lockdown. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Whisby Garden Centre has social distancing markings on the floor and signage with the two metre rule in place, while staff have been seen wearing masks.

Once it reaches capacity, the garden centre will operate a one in, one out policy and trolleys are being cleaned after ever use. It is advised to pay contactless with card and there is a new limit of £45.

Social distancing measures in place at Whisby Garden Centre. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

The other sections of the shop in Whisby, such as books and clothing, have been closed off.

B&Q

A queue outside B&Q in Lincoln. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Inside B&Q during lockdown. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Customers have faced waits at B&Q this week, with people advised to collect their trolley before joining the queue. It is also advised to keep a trolley’s length from others at all times.

Elderly and vulnerable customers may be invited to shop first and the two metre social distancing rule must be observed at all times, with markings on the floor to help guide people.

B&Q has put various safety measures in place during lockdown. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

The number of customers in store is being kept to a safe limit, with only two per family or group, and aged 16 or over only.

Anyone with coronavirus symptoms is advised not to enter the store. The store is also only accepting card payments.

Aldi

Inside Aldi during lockdown. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Supermarkets in Lincoln have also implemented their own measures including Aldi, where it is advised to shop individually where possible.

It is advised to shop individually where possible. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Cleaning regimes are in place and customers will be offered wipes to disinfect trolleys and baskets when they enter Aldi stores. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Face masks have been provided to all of Aldi’s store-based colleagues. This is in addition to the provision of gloves and clear screens that were being installed at more than 7,000 checkouts across the country from last month.