Site visits for business meetings and events now allowed

Hospitality businesses are now permitted to allow site visits for business meetings and events, it has been confirmed.

From 29 March people are allowed to look around venues with a view to making a future business-related booking, as long as Covid guidelines such as social distancing are followed.

But there is confusion around site visits for weddings, which UKHospitality said will only be allowed once venues can reopen for indoor hospitality on 17 May.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said on Twitter: “Govt confirms that wedding show rounds cannot take place until the wedding venue is open for leisure visits, eg hotels cannot show round for weddings until 17 May.

“I am seeking further clarification on details, but have reported what we were told on Friday – show rounds no earlier than when they are open to public.”

From 29 March weddings and civil partnerships can take place with up to six people, but receptions are not permitted.

On 12 April up to 15 guests will be allowed in Covid-secure venues, and receptions can take place outside as a sit-down meal.

Up to 30 guests will be allowed from 17 May, and receptions can go ahead in a Covid-secure venue or outside.

The Caterer has contacted the government for further comment.