A WIMBORNE road will close on Sundays up until May 16 to allow businesses to open and operate outside.

East Street will close every Sunday, starting on April 18, and up to and including May 16.

A spokesperson for the Wimborne Minster BID said: “This year has been so challenging for businesses, especially for our lovely family owned cafes and pubs that have been closed for so much time, and that have gone above and beyond the regulations to keep us safe.

“From Monday, April 12, hospitality businesses are allowed to serve outside, but not inside until May 17.

“We would like to close a portion of East Street on Sundays to allow the hospitality businesses in Wimborne to serve customers outside.

“Covid regulations will be followed at all times in the area with regular cleaning, social distancing and enforcement of the rule of six.

“The closure applies from Millstream Close to the junction at the High Street, although from Park Lane to Millstream Close will be access for residents and trade vehicles only.

“The closure will run from around 9am to allow us to install seating, with businesses opening at 10am. The seating will be cleared at 4pm, and the road will be open again by 5pm.

“There will be stewards to help ingress and egress from the street and the BID Manager, Tammy Sleet, will be on call to answer any questions and help in any way we can.

“We do hope you support this initiative to help businesses get back on their feet after such a challenging year.”