// Intu outlines plans to begin reopening centres nationwide
// The shopping centre owner said the plans are in line with government guidance
Intu has drawn up plans on how it will begin the gradual reopening of non-essential retail stores at its 14 centres nationwide in line with government guidelines.
The shopping centre owner said individual plans have been drawn up for each centre to “keep everyone who visits or works there safe”.
New social distancing and hygiene procedures have been put in place to support the reopenings.
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Intu drafted in experts to develop each centre plan using a series of central principles for its portfolio.
The plans include placing limits on the number of people and cars allowed into each centre at a time, with some parking bays closed, and there will be a raft of other measures including one-way systems, floor stickers and staff training to ensure visitors stay socially distanced.
Enhanced hygiene regimes will continue, with more deep cleaning of touchpoints like escalators, toilets and keypads.
Hand sanitation stands will also remain at entrances and other locations throughout each centre.
Meanwhile, Intu workers will be equipped with PPE to minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission.
Frontline workers such as security and customer service will be given face masks and gloves.
“Intu is the biggest landlord for most of our customers so we have been working to help them plan the reopening of their stores as soon and as safely as they can,” Intu chief executive Matthew Roberts said.
“We know we cannot do this alone and everyone who visits our centres whether for work or to shop will play their part in keeping themselves and each other safe by following the official guidelines, and the instructions and safety information provided by our teams.
“Our teams have been working incredibly hard to keep our centres clean and safe during the lockdown and we are hugely grateful to them, and we would also like to thank our brand customers and visitors for all their cooperation and patience so far.”
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