The temporary traffic restrictions in Hexham will be lifted on Monday (May 17) to coincide with the latest lockdown easing. 

Northumberland County Council will be removing all the temporary measures, which include allowing two-way traffic back on Market Street, removing some temporary barriers at Battle Hill and reopening Hallstile Bank to traffic. 

It will also be removing the temporary road closure of the Market Place to traffic on those Saturdays when the farmers market is on. 

The measures were put in place last August to create more space for social distancing in the town centre, but the council said it was always intended they would be lifted and the roads returned to 'normal' when it was considered safe from a public health perspective. 

Paul Jones, Director of Local Services, said: “As we emerge from the pandemic we’re supporting a cautious return to a more normal way of life and the economic recovery of our town centre businesses in as safe a way as possible. 

"Now the Government has confirmed that the key requirements for the further easing of restrictions of their roadmap to recovery have been met, we feel it’s appropriate to lift the temporary traffic restrictions in the town centre.

“Throughout this process we’ve worked to balance the needs and views of businesses, residents and other interested groups although we’ve always stressed these measures were not permanent. 

“However one thing that won’t change is the social distancing signage in the town centre, which will remain in place for the coming months to remind people that Covid is still here and they need to continue to take precautions.

“So basic things like good hand hygiene, giving others space and wearing a mask when indoors will still be very important to help keep everyone safe.”