Tier 3 in South Yorkshire, what now?

The timing couldn't be more perfect, as we enter the local half term and we're about to welcome the BBC's Autumnwatch on to the reserve, we get news that we're entering Tier 3 at 00:01 on Saturday morning. 

But what does this mean for the reserve?

Well, operationally, not a lot. We are still open, the shop and café will still operate as it has been, using one way systems and a take away only model. The hides and trails are able to stay open with the mitigations that we have put in place and so is the children's play area. The main changes as far as we are concerned relate to the general public!

• People must not meet socially with friends and family indoors in any setting unless they are part of their household or support bubble. This includes private homes and indoors in hospitality venues, such as pubs. They must also not meet with people outside of their household or support bubble in a private garden or in most outdoor public venues.
• People may continue to see friends and family they do not live with (or have formed a support bubble with) in groups of 6 or less in certain outdoor public spaces such as a park or beach, the countryside, a public garden or a sports venues.
• All pubs and bars must close unless they are serving substantial meals
• People should try to avoid travelling outside the Very High alert level or entering a Very High alert level area, other than for work, education or for caring responsibilities or to travel through as part of a longer journey
• Residents should avoid staying overnight in another part of the UK, and others should avoid staying overnight in the Very High alert area

(bullet points taken from Barnsley Council website) 

Visitors to Old Moor must complete the track and trace requirement, wear a face covering if able to in all our buildings and hides and follow social distancing guidance. We have worked out what the capacity of the reserve is in order to allow for social distancing. We want all of our visitors to enjoy their visit safely and we hope that everyone understands. 

Essentially, we're looking forward to welcoming those who can visit! 

Thank you.