It’s Costa Del Horny! If it’s good enough for Spain and Venice - then why not Horncastle?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson delivered a significant boost to owners on Monday when he announced many shops - including independent outlets - could open from Monday June 15.

However, any businesses connected with he hospitality industry will remain closed with Government sources indicating it could be the middle of July before they are allowed to re-open.

That is a crushing blow to Horncastle’s myriad of cafes, tea rooms and restaurants whose doors have been firmly closed since the start of the lockdown.

However, a Horncastle town councillor has revealed there are moves to ‘open up’ the Market Place with outdoor seating areas which would allow some 
businesses to trade.

The idea has been confirmed by Councillor Alan Lockwood who said the people wanted to do all they could to help the 
local economy.

Coun Lockwood revealed initial talks had been held with East Lindsey District Council who would have to agree to any outdoor facilities.

He said the district council’s response had been ‘encouraging.’

Coun Lockwood added: “It is a really difficult time for our cafes, tea rooms and restaurants but this could at least give them a chance to get some income.

“The recent good weather has shown what could be possible - as long as social distancing is in place.

“Individual businesses could have their own areas.

“Really, we need to get this up and running as soon as possible.

“What we need to do is to gauge what level of support from businesses there would be.”

A number of drink and food outlets are already located in the Market Place including Costa Coffee and two independent cafes.

Depending on the level of support, the scheme could be thrown open to other businesses.

Coun Lockwood confirmed ‘takeaway’ food could be served while there could be the option of live music to entertain people.

Some takeaways in the town are already open.

Other businesses - including award-winning restaurant Shakesby’s - have set up takeaway operations, as have a number of rural pubs in villages like West Ashby and Minting.

While the Market Place scheme has obvious merits, it will require detailed planning to make sure it adheres to the Government’s stringent health and safety regulations.

The Government has cleared outdoor markets and car showrooms to potentially re-open from June 1.

These are some of the businesses that will remain closed:

•Restaurants, bars and pubs

•Cafes and canteens

•Hairdressers, beauty salons

•Tattoo parlours

•Holiday accommodation including hotels, B&Bs, holiday rentals, and campsites

•Caravan Parks

•Churches/places of worship

•Museums, galleries

•Libraries

•Community Centres

•Cinemas

•Night clubs

•Bingo halls, betting shops

•Indoor leisure centres, swimming pools, and gyms