Dobbies leads the way as Northampton's garden centres get the green light to open again

Dobbies will reopen both its Northampton garden centres from tomorrow (Wednesday May 13) after getting the green light from the Government.

Stores at Wootton and Harlestone Heath are among 54 of the chain's 68 centres nationwide will be back in business tomorrow with strict safety measures in place to protect staff and green-fingered customers.

Restaurants and soft play areas will stay closed, although takeaway food and drinks will be available from Friday.

Dobbies CEO Graeme Jenkins said: “We have taken care to ensure we are following guidance provided by the Government, British Retail Consortium and Horticultural Trade Association to reopen responsibly.

“Our team is well prepared, social distancing measures are in place and we look forward to welcoming customers back into our stores in Northampton.

“I would like to thank our team members and customers for their understanding during these uncertain times.”

The number of customers allowed into stores will be strictly limited with a queuing system will be in operation outside the stores, Markers will be in place to ensure customers stay two metres apart to maintain social distancing.

Hand sanitising and trolley cleaning stations will be available at all store entrances.

Protective screens have been installed at tills and customers will be asked to pay with card or contactless rather than cash. Appropriate PPE has been provided for team members, who will also receive training and regular briefings on how to keep themselves and customers safe. Rigorous daily hygiene routines will continue throughout the stores.

Garden Centres land nurseries were deemed "non-essential" and shut following the Covid-19 lockdown on March 23.

But campaigns involving the likes of telly gardener Alan Titchmarsh have led to them being included in places that can now reopen.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not confirm the details in his speech to the nation on Sunday night but tomorrow's reopening has been included in separate Government guidelines.

Bosses at BILLING GARDEN CENTRE say they will hold off reopening "for a time" to get safety measures up to scratch.

A post on the centre's Facebook page said: "The Government has told us we can open from Wednesday however our store will remain closed for a time while we ensure we have implemented appropriate measures to keep our staff and you our customers safe while in store."

"As soon as we have an opening date please be assured we will post it on our page. Our click and collect service is still available and details of this service are at the top of our Facebook page."

"We want to thank you for your continued customer and support and we look forward to seeing you soon."

CRAMDEN HURSERY, which is based in Harborough Road, are continuing to offer a local delivery service for households in the NN1-NN7 postcodes for the time being.